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WTO Review of EU Trade Policies: What Foreign Founders in China Need to Know

The Chinese government is seeking public comments from companies, industry associations, and research institutions on EU trade and investment policies ahead of the WTO's 16th Trade Policy Review of the EU. Foreign founders operating in China should note the November 15 deadline and the opportunity to submit concerns.

WTO to Review EU Trade Policies in December 2026

The World Trade Organization (WTO) will conduct its 16th Trade Policy Review of the European Union on December 8 and 10, 2026, according to the WTO Trade Policy Review Body's schedule. During this review, WTO members will comprehensively examine and assess the EU's trade and investment policy developments since 2023 and their impact. This information comes from a notice published by China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) on October 15, 2026.

For foreign founders operating a company in China—whether through a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE), joint venture, or representative office—the EU's trade and investment policies can affect cross-border operations, supply chains, and market access. The Chinese government is now inviting public input to better understand the concerns and demands of Chinese enterprises regarding EU trade and investment policies. While the notice specifically mentions "our enterprises" (referring to Chinese companies), foreign founders in China may also find it relevant to monitor these developments, as EU policies can influence the broader business environment.

Public Consultation: Submit Comments by November 15

MOFCOM's Department of WTO Affairs is seeking written or electronic comments from relevant enterprises, industry associations, and research institutions. The consultation aims to gather questions, concerns, and comments regarding EU trade and investment policies. Submissions must be made by November 15, 2026.

Foreign founders who have operations in China and are affected by EU trade policies—for example, through exports to the EU, imports of EU goods, or investment flows—may consider whether their concerns fall within the scope of this consultation. Although the notice is primarily directed at Chinese entities, foreign-invested enterprises in China are part of the Chinese economy and may have relevant insights. However, the notice does not explicitly state that foreign-invested enterprises are eligible to submit comments. Founders should assess their situation carefully or seek guidance before making a submission.

Contact Information for Submissions

Comments can be sent to MOFCOM's Department of WTO Affairs using the following contact details:

• Phone: 010-85093908; 010-65197341
• Fax: 010-65197762
• Email: [email protected]

All submissions should be made by November 15, 2026. The notice does not specify a particular format, but comments should be in writing (either physical or electronic) and should clearly identify the issues and concerns.

Why This Matters for Foreign Founders in China

Trade policy reviews are a regular WTO function. The EU review will cover policies from 2023 onward, a period that includes significant global trade disruptions and regulatory changes. For foreign founders, understanding these policies can help in strategic planning, particularly if their business involves:

• Exporting goods or services to the EU from China
• Importing EU-origin goods into China
• Investment links between China and the EU
• Supply chains that cross EU borders

While the consultation is not directly aimed at foreign founders, it is a reminder that trade policy developments at the WTO level can have practical implications for companies operating in China. Staying informed about such reviews can help founders anticipate changes and adjust their compliance and market strategies accordingly.

Practical Steps for Foreign Founders

If you are a foreign founder with a company in China, consider the following:

• Assess relevance: Determine whether EU trade and investment policies affect your business operations. If your company trades with or invests in the EU, the review may be relevant.
• Monitor developments: Keep track of the WTO review process and any outcomes that could impact your industry. The review meeting in December 2026 may lead to recommendations or discussions that affect future policies.
• Consider submitting comments: If you believe your concerns fall within the scope of the consultation, you may consider submitting comments by the November 15 deadline. However, since the notice is addressed to Chinese enterprises and institutions, foreign founders should verify eligibility before submitting. When in doubt, consult with legal advisors or industry associations.
• Engage with industry associations: Industry associations and chambers of commerce may be collecting input from their members. Participating through such channels could be an effective way to voice concerns.

It is important to note that this consultation is part of China's participation in the WTO trade policy review process. The Chinese government uses such consultations to formulate its positions for the review meetings. Therefore, submitting comments is a way to contribute to the government's understanding of business concerns.

Conclusion

The WTO's 16th Trade Policy Review of the EU will take place on December 8 and 10, 2026. MOFCOM is seeking public comments on EU trade and investment policies until November 15, 2026. Foreign founders in China who are affected by EU policies should stay informed and consider whether to participate in the consultation. For assistance with company registration and operations in China, foreign founders can contact ChinaMNC on WhatsApp / WeChat at +86 153 1898 8535.

This summary is based on information published by the relevant Chinese government website and is general information, not legal or tax advice.