The NYT reported on the aggravation of trade relations between the EU and China

The European Union (EU) is facing growing risks of worsening trade relations with China amid a sharp increase in imports of cheap Chinese goods, primarily electric vehicles. This was reported on May 29 by The New York Times (NYT).

According to the publication, the influx of Chinese products is increasing pressure on the European industrial sector and may lead to structural problems in a number of industries. Experts note that the trade imbalance between the parties has reached record levels.

The article also cites a statement by the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kai Kallas, who compared the process of reducing dependence on China to "treating a serious illness," noting that it can be painful.

"You may need 'chemotherapy,' and it's likely to be painful," Callas said.

As the NYT notes, concerns about a possible crisis of European industry are growing in Brussels. In the first quarter of 2026, imports from China increased significantly, and the trade deficit in goods reached approximately $418 billion.

The increase in supplies is attributed to excess production capacity in China, government subsidies, and the reorientation of exports to the European market amid American trade restrictions.

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The conflict between the two forces could weaken the EU economy

Rainer Braun, a German expert and former co-chairman of the International Peace Bureau, said on May 16 that the decline in the EU's economic performance indicates a relative weakening of the community. Brown suggested that the EU considers it necessary to fight "rivals" such as China or Russia in order to regain its lost positions.