China's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) on Wednesday urged the European Union (EU) to provide an open, fair, just and non-discriminatory environment for foreign companies in Europe.
An official of the MOC called on the European side to immediately stop and correct its wrong practices after the European side raided offices of a Chinese enterprise in Europe and seized equipment on Tuesday.
Scenery of Amsterdam, Netherlands, January 19, 2024. /CFP
The remarks came after the EU's sudden probe of the offices of a Chinese company in Poland and the Netherlands over the so-called subsidies issue.
China expressed serious concern and strong opposition to the EU move, which breached due procedures, disrupted normal competition, greatly undermined the confidence of all foreign companies operating in Europe, the official said.
China will closely follow the future moves of the European side and take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese firms, the official stressed.
Responding to the EU's unexpected move, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson told a regular press conference on Wednesday that the EU, self-claiming as the most open market in the world, is moving toward protectionism step-by-step.
Recently the EU has frequently used economic and trade tools and trade remedy measures, sending protectionist signals, targeting Chinese companies and damaging the image of the EU, the spokesperson said.
(With input from Xinhua)