Europe edges closer to a trade war with China as inexpensive goods flood the continent, putting pressure on domestic manufacturers. The situation has created growing urgency among European policymakers to find solutions to protect their industrial base.

Chinese electric vehicles awaiting export at Hangzhou port illustrate the scale of what's heading to European markets. These shipments represent just one category of goods flowing from China to Europe, where they compete directly with locally-produced alternatives.

The threat extends beyond individual products to the broader manufacturing sector that employs millions across Europe. As Chinese exports arrive at competitive prices, European producers face shrinking profit margins and potential job losses.

Brussels bureau chief Jeanna Smialek and Shanghai bureau chief Alexandra Stevenson report on mounting tensions that could reshape trade relationships between the two economic powers. The coming months will likely determine whether diplomatic solutions emerge or protectionist measures take hold.