BEIJING, 10 October, 2026 (Nosheen): China and the European Union have agreed to explore tariff reductions on selected goods, strengthen cooperation on export controls and address outstanding market access issues to stabilise bilateral trade and economic relations. The agreement was reached during the second China-EU Trade and Investment Consultation Mechanism meeting held in Beijing on October 8–9, co-chaired by Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and European Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to resolving trade disputes under World Trade Organisation rules and promoting balanced economic ties. They also agreed to continue consultations on hybrid vehicles, Chinese electric vehicles and access to medical device markets. The two sides will hold their third consultation meeting in March 2027, with a ministerial-level video conference planned for January. China also agreed to accelerate recognition of regionalisation principles for eligible EU member states and discuss ways to ease import restrictions linked to bluetongue disease. The developments reflect efforts by Beijing and Brussels to maintain dialogue and reduce trade tensions.