WTO neutrality at stake as US, China, EU seem headed for showdown

In a volley of filings, the three regions this week escalated disputes over new US metals tariffs, Europe's response to those levies, and Chinese intellectual property practices

The US, China and the European Union moved a few steps closer to a major clash at the World Trade Organization that risks testing the global trade referee’s neutrality and President Donald Trump’s patience for an institution he already hates.

In a volley of filings, the EU, China and the US this week escalated disputes over new US metals tariffs, the European response to those levies, and Chinese intellectual property practices.

The moves show how major powers like the EU and China are standing up to Trump’s “America First” trade manoeuvres, and challenging his willingness to go outside global trade