The Sino-American rivalry has far-reaching global consequences, particularly for the European Union. The bloc has often found itself exposed to decisions taken by Washington and Beijing behind closed doors, without much European representation. Previous episodes of US–China disputes, including China’s weaponization of critical raw materials and technology restrictions affecting supply chains, have demonstrated Europe’s vulnerability. As President Trump prepares to host President Xi in Washington on September 24, expectations are that both sides will seek to extend their fragile truce rather than resolve deeper structural disputes.

At the same time, China is a top policy priority for Brussels in its own right. Recent EU policy initiatives have focused on reducing critical dependencies and responding to China’s growing trade surplus, amid mounting concerns about a "second China shock" hitting European industry. However, addressing these challenges requires coordinated action. The timing of the Trump–Xi summit is particularly significant as it falls just ahead of EU Trade Commissioner Šefčovič’s visit to Beijing and a key European Council and trade ministerial in October.

This online policy dialogue, hosted jointly by the European Policy Centre and the Atlantic Council, will examine the outcomes of the Trump–Xi summit and explore opportunities for greater transatlantic cooperation on China.

This event welcomes the participation of EPC member organisations, EU institutions and media.

For media enquiries, please contact media@epc.eu.

For other queries, please contact events@epc.eu.