By Hasan Muhammad

Editor's Note: The writer is a freelance columnist on international affairs based in Karachi, Pakistan. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of China Economic Net.

In today's interconnected world, where supply chains stretch across continents and industries rely on seamless exchanges, the value of trust between trading partners cannot be overstated. The latest signals from China’s Ministry of Commerce this week are a timely reminder that pragmatic cooperation is still possible - and urgently needed - between China and the European Union.

China has once again reiterated its willingness to expand bilateral market access, enhance discussions on sensitive areas such as government procurement and export controls, and deepen the vital industrial and supply chain ties that link Europe and China. This is not merely diplomatic language; it reflects Beijing’s recognition that Europe remains an indispensable partner - and that stable ties serve both sides.

Earlier this month, Chinese authorities introduced anti-dumping duties of up to 34.9 percent on EU-produced brandy. Some voices in Europe predictably labelled this protectionist. But the full picture tells a different story. Alongside the duties, Chinese regulators accepted minimum price undertakings from dozens of European producers - a compromise that allows compliant imports to avoid tariffs altogether. Far from being a harsh measure, it is a demonstration that China prefers to resolve trade frictions through dialogue and practical solutions.

At its heart, this is about more than brandy. It is a small but telling example of how two major economies can manage disputes without letting them escalate into broader conflict. It shows that even when tensions surface, constructive channels remain open - if both sides are willing to use them.

Recent developments in the electric vehicle (EV) sector echo a similar dynamic. The European Commission has intensified its anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese EVs, reflecting Europe’s unease over China’s rapid industrial advances. Yet Chinese automakers have responded with their own proposals for price undertakings - showing a clear readiness to negotiate and prevent a trade clash that could drag on for years and damage growth on both sides.

However, as Chinese officials have pointed out this week, Brussels often appears more comfortable prolonging procedures than resolving them. Technical delays and drawn-out paperwork only add layers of uncertainty for industries and workers who rely on predictable flows of trade and investment.

This cautious approach from Brussels sits uneasily with Europe’s dependence on Chinese materials and markets. Europe is not only a competitor to China - it is also a major customer and partner. Chinese rare earths, the minerals vital for wind turbines, smartphones and electric cars, continue to supply European industries at scale. To support this, China has created a dedicated “green channel” to fast-track exports. But Beijing remains concerned that Europe’s approval processes remain unnecessarily complicated and that unfounded accusations only erode trust.

This cannot be viewed in isolation. The broader geopolitical reality is shaped by the policies of Washington and Brussels on one side, and the growing ties between Beijing and other global partners on the other. Europe, facing pressure from the United States to align more closely on strategic sectors like advanced semiconductors and green tech, finds itself navigating a delicate balance - wary of overdependence on China but equally aware that shutting the door would damage its own industries and growth prospects.

Amid these shifting dynamics, China’s position has remained consistent: disputes should be managed through calm consultation, not confrontation.