CCCEU Statement on Reports of Relevant EU Member States' Push for an EU "301" Instrument

29 September 2026

Brussels, Belgium

The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU) has noted recent reports that some EU Member States are calling on the European Commission to accelerate the development of an EU "301" instrument. We are concerned about the ongoing discussions on this matter.

The CCCEU believes that, if the reported EU "301" instrument were to be introduced, it could raise serious concerns regarding its compatibility with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules. Such a unilateral trade instrument could risk weaponising trade policy. It would not help address the structural challenges currently facing European industry, including high energy costs, insufficient investment and the need to strengthen innovation. Instead, it could disrupt China-EU and global trade and create further uncertainty for the stability of global industrial and supply chains.

European industry has also experienced the negative impact of similar unilateral trade measures. International trade instruments should not become subject to a "race to the bottom", nor should unilateral measures replace multilateral rules. Upholding the multilateral trading system based on WTO rules and avoiding "beggar-thy-neighbour" approaches are in the common interests of all parties, including Europe.

At present, China and the EU are maintaining intensive communication under the Trade and Investment Consultation (TIC) mechanism, with established channels for dialogue and consultation on economic and trade issues. The CCCEU calls on relevant European stakeholders to make full and constructive use of these existing mechanisms, address differences and concerns through dialogue and consultation, and work towards substantive and balanced outcomes in China-EU trade and investment consultations at an early stage.

Chinese companies operating in Europe expect the EU and its Member States to continue providing a fair, equitable, transparent and predictable business environment, and to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of companies, including Chinese companies, in accordance with the law.

CCCEU stands ready to continue strengthening communication and cooperation with European stakeholders and to work with European partners to foster an open, stable and innovation-friendly business environment, contributing to Europe's economic growth and China-EU economic and trade cooperation.