• China will expedite export approvals for rare earths to the EU to ease trade tensions.
• A decision on anti-dumping duties on EU brandy imports is expected by July 5.
• Price commitment consultations on Chinese electric vehicles are nearing completion.

China has announced its willingness to speed up the examination and approval processes for rare earth exports to European Union firms, a move aimed at alleviating ongoing trade tensions. The Chinese commerce ministry stated that it is prepared to establish a "green channel" for qualified applications, demonstrating its commitment to addressing EU concerns. This development follows discussions between Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic held in Paris, marking a significant step forward in trade relations that have been strained over the past year, particularly after China's suspension of rare earth exports in April which disrupted vital supply chains globally, according to Reuters, AA, TRT World, Channel News Asia, and India Times.

During the meeting, Wang emphasized the need for mutual cooperation, stating, "We hope the EU will meet us halfway and take effective measures to facilitate, safeguard and promote compliant trade in high-tech products to China." In discussions concerning the European Union's brandy import investigations, the Chinese ministry confirmed that French producers have submitted applications regarding price commitments for their products. A final ruling on these commitments is expected before July 5, as ongoing investigations into pricing practices have further complicated relations, particularly after the EU imposed duties on Chinese electric vehicles citing protection of local industries, according to Reuters, AA, TRT World, Channel News Asia, and India Times.

The ongoing price commitment consultations concerning Chinese electric vehicles indicate that both parties are close to finalizing terms, although unresolved issues remain. This response is critical as the EU continues to explore alternatives to existing tariffs likely impacting trade volumes significantly. The EU has also put forth proposals regarding "new technical paths" for cooperation, which are currently under review by Chinese authorities, highlighting the evolving nature of this partnership amid rising competition in crucial sectors including electric vehicles and semiconductors, according to Reuters, AA, TRT World, Channel News Asia, and India Times.