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China’s MOFCOM Seeks Public Comments on EU Trade Policies Ahead of WTO Review

China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) is collecting comments from companies and industry groups on EU trade and investment policies in preparation for the WTO’s 16th trade policy review of the EU, scheduled for December 8 and 10, 2026. Foreign founders in China should note the November 15 deadline and submission details.

China Seeks Comments on EU Trade Policies for WTO Review

The Chinese Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has issued a public notice inviting interested parties to submit comments on trade and investment policies of the European Union. This initiative is part of the preparation for the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) 16th trade policy review of the EU, which will take place on December 8 and 10, 2026. During the review, WTO members will examine the EU’s trade and investment policy developments since 2023 and assess their impact.

For foreign founders operating a company in China—whether in manufacturing, services, or trade—this is a chance to voice concerns or observations about EU policies that may affect your business. The information gathered will help Chinese authorities understand the perspectives of enterprises, industry associations, and research institutions regarding EU trade and investment measures.

Why This Matters for Foreign Founders in China

If your company in China engages in trade or investment with the EU, or if you are affected by EU policies, your input can contribute to the review process. The WTO trade policy review is a mechanism to ensure transparency and compliance with WTO rules. By participating, you can help highlight specific issues that impact your operations, such as market access barriers, regulatory changes, or investment restrictions.

The notice emphasizes that the goal is to gather a comprehensive understanding of the concerns and demands of Chinese enterprises regarding EU trade and investment policies. While the notice is addressed to Chinese entities, foreign founders with operations in China may also find it relevant, especially if their business interests are tied to EU-China trade.

How to Submit Your Comments

MOFCOM welcomes written or electronic submissions from companies, industry associations, research institutions, and other interested parties. The deadline for submission is November 15, 2026. All comments should be sent to the Department of WTO Affairs at MOFCOM.

Contact details for submissions are as follows:

• Phone: 010-85093908; 010-65197341
• Fax: 010-65197762
• Email: [email protected]

When preparing your submission, consider focusing on specific EU policies or measures that affect your business in China. For example, if you are a foreign founder in the tech sector, you might address EU regulations on data flows or digital trade. If you are in manufacturing, you might comment on tariffs, standards, or investment screening mechanisms. Providing concrete examples and data can strengthen your submission.

Practical Guidance for Foreign Founders

As a foreign founder operating in China, staying informed about trade policy developments is essential for strategic planning. This public consultation is an opportunity to engage with the policy process. Here are some steps you can take:

• Review EU policies: Identify EU trade and investment policies that directly impact your business in China. This could include import/export regulations, investment restrictions, or subsidy rules.
• Prepare a concise submission: Clearly state your concerns or comments, backed by evidence where possible. Keep it focused and professional.
• Submit before the deadline: Ensure your comments reach MOFCOM by November 15, 2026, via email, fax, or post.
• Consult with local experts: If needed, seek advice from legal or trade advisors familiar with both Chinese and EU regulatory frameworks.

Participation in such consultations can also help you build relationships with relevant authorities and demonstrate your commitment to compliance and transparency.

Background on the WTO Trade Policy Review

The WTO conducts periodic reviews of each member’s trade policies to enhance transparency and understanding of trade regimes. The EU’s 16th review will cover policies from 2023 onward. As a major trading partner of China, EU policies have significant implications for global supply chains and cross-border investment. By contributing to this process, you can help ensure that the review reflects the realities faced by businesses on the ground.

For foreign founders, this is also a reminder that China’s engagement with the WTO is active and that channels exist for businesses to express their views. While the notice is primarily aimed at Chinese stakeholders, foreign-invested enterprises in China are part of the broader business community and may benefit from staying informed.

Next Steps

If you decide to submit comments, do so promptly to meet the November 15 deadline. After submission, MOFCOM will compile the inputs for use in the WTO review process. The review meetings in December will involve WTO members examining the EU’s policies and providing feedback. While individual submissions may not be made public, they contribute to the overall assessment.

For ongoing updates on trade policy consultations and other regulatory matters affecting foreign businesses in China, consider following official MOFCOM announcements or consulting with professional advisors.

Call to Action: Foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535 for help registering and operating a company in China.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.