EU takes firmer stance on China’s trade practices as Beijing talks begin

What happened: The EU is taking a firmer stance on China's trade practices as two days of negotiations begin in Beijing. Trade chief Maros Sefcovic is set to meet Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao this week. Key numbers: The trade deficit exceeds $1 billion a day. Why it matters: The EU is preparing safeguard measures that would limit imports of Chinese hybrid vehicles, which may be seen as an escalation. Germany and France called for stronger tools, but the EU wants to moderate its action to avoid retaliation from Beijing. Coverage: 3 outlets in 24h

The EU is taking a firmer stance on China's trade practices as two days of negotiations begin in Beijing. Trade chief Maros Sefcovic is set to meet Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao this week.

The EU is preparing safeguard measures that would limit imports of Chinese hybrid vehicles, which may be seen as an escalation. Germany and France called for stronger tools, but the EU wants to moderate its action to avoid retaliation from Beijing.