China stresses dialogue, opposes discriminatory EU trade curbs

China reaffirmed its willingness to resolve trade differences with the European Union through dialogue, while stressing that it will take all necessary measures if the bloc imposes discriminatory restrictions on Chinese products, the Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.

Huang Ling, a spokeswoman for the ministry, made the remarks at a news conference in response to reports that Brussels is considering extending the understanding reached with China on trade in hybrid vehicles to other sectors, including chemicals.

Artificial restrictions on normal trade could violate World Trade Organization rules and would do nothing to improve the competitiveness of European industries, Huang said.

Instead, such measures would place a heavier burden on downstream industries, push up inflation across the bloc and undermine the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains, she added.

Huang pointed to progress and a series of agreements reached at the recent second meeting of the China-EU trade and investment consultation mechanism.

The outcomes demonstrated that both sides have the willingness and ability to find solutions to trade and economic differences through dialogue, she said.

"China is not the root cause of the EU's problems, but a partner in solving them," Huang said.

Beijing stands ready to strengthen dialogue and consultation with Brussels, continue exploring ways to address their respective trade and economic concerns, and promote balanced growth and further development in China-EU trade, she said.

However, China firmly opposes protectionist practices that abuse trade defense instruments, Huang added.

"If the EU insists on imposing discriminatory restrictions on Chinese products, China will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard its own interests and the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises," she said.