China and the European Union

Reviewing a number of the most relevant narrative items indicates that media sources are shaping their portrayals of the EU's planned tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in ways that reflect their respective national perspectives. Chinese media outlets like Ecns.cn and China Daily emphasize a negative characterization of the EU's actions, using language that evokes feelings of discrimination and unfair treatment, pointing out that these tariffs could harm bilateral trade relations and contradict climate goals. Terms like "punitive duties" and "protectionist measures" convey a sense of harsh policy repercussions, while criticisms from experts are highlighted to amplify a sense of impending trade conflict. In contrast, sources like Global Times also pursue a critical perspective on the EU but introduce a narrative of justified Chinese competitiveness, framing the tariffs as self-inflicted wounds for the EU. This juxtaposition is evident across the coverage, as Chinese outlets tend to employ emotionally charged language to accentuate grievances against EU policies, while still invoking China's commitment to dialogue and fair practices. Overall, there is a consistent indication of bias in how these stories are presented, focusing on the implications of the tariffs on trade and climate goals from a standpoint that advocates for Chinese interests, thereby influencing audience perceptions of the EU's measures as aggressive or unfairly targeted.