At the European Parliament this week, members of Parliament had questions for Executive Vice President of the European Commission Valdis Dombrovskis on topics such as de-risking, Chinese legislation related to security, Chinese investments in Europe, Chinese restrictions on exports of gallium and germanium, and human rights issues.

In response to a challenge by Chinese companies to their inclusion on the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Entity List, the U.S. government has now filed a brief asking a U.S. court to dismiss the case and deny the injunction requested by the companies.

The European Commission adopted a new document that sets up a deadline for Member States to conduct risk assessments on multiple critical technologies, including AI, advanced chips and manufacturing equipment, as well as quantum computing, with potential export controls and investment restrictions to follow.

After an announcement by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen several weeks ago that the Commission would launch an anti-subsidy investigation on imports of Chinese battery electric vehicles (BEVs), the Commission has now formally initiated the investigation and issued key documents in the case.

Two Chinese battery materials makers recently announced investment plans in Europe and Africa to meet the growing global demand.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has canceled a public hearing on China's compliance with WTO commitments, but 20 comments from various organizations have now been submitted, and these will be taken into account as USTR prepares its annual report to Congress.

With the U.S. Trade Representative's Office (USTR) review of the Section 301 tariffs on China well underway and due to conclude soon, a former U.S. trade official has suggested using the review to impose additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.