Von der Leyen vows tough stance with China, using EU’s tools to rebalance trade - South China Morning Post

Xiaofei Xuin ParisPublished: 6:56pm, 16 Sep 2026European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has reaffirmed the bloc’s resolve to use all available tools to rebalance trade with China.

After opening remarks about energy and innovation during her annual State of the Union speech at the European Parliament on Wednesday, she quickly pivoted to the EU’s trade deficit with China and contended that the “second China shock” had already arrived.

She argued that European firms must compete on a level playing field, noting that while Brussels was engaged in dialogue with Beijing, such talks must lead to results.

“Let me be clear: we will use all the tools at our disposal to rebalance our relationship. Words are good, but deeds are better,” von der Leyen said.