Not too early for EU and China to start FTA talks

Some may say the market economy of China is not sophisticated enough for Brussels to consider a strategy of combined talks similar to those between Brussels and Washington on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership.

But Brussels and Beijing are already talking on an investment pact, which aims to achieve "deep and comprehensive" goals as well.

In some ways, the ongoing talks have basically shown Brussels' recognition of the openness and sophistication of China's economy, which has been developing for decades. So it is not reasonable for Brussels to postpone the free trade agreement because of China's lack of market economy status.

What's more, China has already entered into free trade agreements with a number of countries in Europe, including Switzerland and Iceland. They treat China as market economy and the agreements have already boosted trade flows by big margins.

Some may say, it would be encouraging and promising for both sides to kick off such talks but Brussels is preoccupied with other pressing tasks. However, the leadership, especially the top European leaders, should keep the big picture in mind even when dealing with the different crises the EU faces.

With the thousands of bureaucrats in Brussels, there is no problem forming a task force to officially launch feasibility studies with the aim of kicking off talks with Beijing.

China is undergoing decisive reforms, so launching the free trade talks could also help speed up domestic reforms.

From feasibility studies to ratification, being optimistic, Brussels and Beijing will need at least five years to remove barriers and establish free trade.

The most important thing now is for the leaders of both sides to take first step and agree to launch a feasibility study at their annual summit this year.

And then, negotiators from Beijing and Brussels can engage in the give-and-take process to unlock the great potential that is locked behind trade barriers.

The author is deputy editor of China Daily European Edition. fujing@chinadaily.com.cn