European Union leaders are set to deliberate in mid-October on escalating measures against China. Germany and France are proactively developing a new protective instrument aimed at addressing concerns regarding China’s actions. The discussion stems from growing anxieties and what is being termed a “China shock,” indicating a significant shift in perspective. This potential response involves considering the exclusion of China from the EU market should a conflict arise. The details of this protective instrument and specific triggers for market exclusion remain under development. This move signals a hardening stance towards China within key EU member states. The upcoming EU leaders’ meeting will be pivotal in determining the future of EU-China trade relations.