Europe's trade gap with China is widening. This is leading to protective measures on items like electric vehicles and e-commerce. Leaders are meeting to discuss the growing trade conflict. Beijing wants dialogue but warns of retaliation. The risk of a trade war is real, though both sides have reasons to avoid escalation.

Brussels currently lacks the firepower to win a trade clash with China – and Beijing is not in a mood to make concessions, analysts warn.

Brussels currently lacks the firepower to win a trade clash with China – and Beijing is not in a mood to make concessions, analysts warn.