Summary
Ministry of Commerce spokesperson Huang Ling responded on the 3rd to hot topics such as China-EU trade consultations, France's 'anti-ultra-fast fashion' law, and the US hype over 'economic imbalance'. Vice Minister Ling Ji held talks with the European Commission's Denis Redonnet from August 31 to September 2, emphasizing that consultations should be equal and unilateral demands should not be made. Regarding France's 'anti-ultra-fast fashion' law, which takes effect on September 1, 2026, Huang Ling expressed strong dissatisfaction and urged France to stop implementing it, otherwise necessary measures would be taken.
China opposes the US using the G20 to hype up 'economic imbalance', pointing out that its essence is protectionism.
Commentary
The China-EU trade consultations have again hit a stalemate. France's 'anti-ultra-fast-fashion' law targeting Chinese fast-fashion platforms such as Shein and Temu will take effect in 2026, imposing environmental fines on each item. From an industry perspective, Shein and Temu have achieved annual growth rates of over 50% in Europe thanks to their small-batch, rapid-response model.
This French move may force platforms to pass costs down the supply chain or accelerate localized production within the EU. For SMEs in New Zealand, on the one hand, if they rely on Chinese cross-border e-commerce for procurement, potential volatility in the European market could affect Chinese suppliers' pricing strategies. On the other hand, if they export textiles to Europe, they need to be wary of EU sustainable regulatory standards spilling over into other markets.
If China-EU consultations fail to achieve equal negotiation, rising global trade frictions will drive up logistics and compliance costs. Small and medium-sized importers should diversify their sourcing sources in advance.
Keywords: Ministry of Commerce, China-EU trade and investment consultations, Anti-Ultra-Fast Fashion Law, economic imbalance, trade protectionism, Huang Ling, France, United States
Source: China.org.cn
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