China and the EU are exploring the establishment of a trade and investment consultation mechanism and will further strengthen dialogue and communication, H.E. Ling Ji, Vice Minister of Commerce and Deputy China International Trade Representative, said during a meeting with representatives of Chinese enterprises operating in Europe on June 10 in Brussels.

Ling made the remarks during a roundtable discussion with Chinese businesses organised by the China Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU). The discussion focused on the evolving business environment in Europe and the outlook for China-EU economic and trade cooperation. The meeting was chaired by Liu Jiandong, Chairman of the CCCEU and Chairman of Bank of China (Europe) S.A., while Minister Suo Peng of the Chinese Mission to the EU also attended.

Liu Jiandong briefed participants on the Chamber's recent work and the operating environment facing Chinese businesses in Europe. Representatives from the automotive, finance, manufacturing, renewable energy and ICT sectors exchanged views on the EU's evolving business environment, citing concerns over regulatory complexity, market access and the broader impact of geopolitical tensions on cross-border investment and trade. Despite these challenges, participants said Europe remains a strategic market for Chinese companies and a key destination for long-term investment. They pointed to continued opportunities for cooperation in areas such as clean technologies, digital innovation and advanced manufacturing, while calling for greater policy certainty and a more predictable business environment.

After listening to the companies' views, Ling engaged in in-depth discussions with the participants. He stressed that China attaches great importance to the development of Chinese enterprises in Europe. He noted that China and the EU are currently exploring the establishment of a trade and investment consultation mechanism and will further strengthen dialogue and communication.

He encouraged Chinese enterprises in Europe to maintain confidence in their future development, adhere to compliant operations, and contribute further to the healthy and stable growth of China–EU economic and trade relations.

Before the roundtable discussion, Ling toured the CCCEU Secretariat and received a briefing on the Chamber's development and activities.

The meeting was held during Ling's visit to Brussels and Germany from 9 to 14 June.Participants included officials from China's Ministry of Commerce, representatives of the Mission of China to the EU, and CCCEU members.