The European Union is preparing to introduce new restrictions on imports of various Chinese goods, potentially as early as the first quarter of 2027, as part of efforts to shield domestic industries and address its growing trade deficit with China. The contemplated measures could include import quotas or additional tariffs targeting sectors such as chemicals, furniture, and machinery.

These initiatives follow the EU’s recent agreement with China to cap annual imports of hybrid vehicles at 350,000 units—a step designed to limit excessive imports without provoking retaliatory actions. The planned import controls are aimed at curbing surges in Chinese products that have contributed to the EU’s substantial trade imbalance with China, which reached €360 billion ($404 billion) in 2025.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the bloc’s intention to take further protective actions. “Our industries have called for action and we have heard them, and we will respond, including some more safeguards,” she said earlier this month. The proposed safeguards could take the form of import quotas or tariff-rate quotas, which would impose higher duties on shipments that exceed certain thresholds.

The European Commission has commenced a detailed analysis of trade data to identify sectors experiencing significant increases in imports from China. However, the scope and specifics of the measures remain under discussion and may be adjusted following consultations with EU member states and Chinese authorities.

While the EU seeks to balance protecting its industries and maintaining trade relations with China, officials have signaled a willingness to implement stronger control mechanisms if necessary to address what they view as unfair trade practices and the widening deficit. The outcome of ongoing negotiations and data assessments will determine the final form of the import restrictions slated for introduction in 2027.