The China Chamber of Commerce to the European Union (CCCEU) said on Tuesday that it is "extremely shocked and dissatisfied" after the EU conducted raids on a Chinese company's offices in Poland and the Netherlands.
The raids, which occurred without prior notice on Tuesday morning, aimed to investigate potential industry subsidies.
"They seized the company's information technology equipment and employees' mobile phones, scrutinized office documents, and demanded access to pertinent data," as revealed by the CCCEU.
The Brussels-based business group criticized the EU for the "unjustifiable, unannounced raids," pointing out the lack of prior notice and solid evidence to justify such actions. It stressed that "suspicions regarding subsidies can be followed by reasonable means of investigation."
The CCCEU said that the EU's actions send a detrimental message not only to Chinese enterprises but to all non-EU companies operating in the bloc.
The business group also condemned the EU's intention to weaponize the Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR) as a tool to suppress lawfully operating Chinese firms in Europe.
The group has called on the European authorities to stop abusing FSR tools, effectively protect the legitimate rights and interests of foreign enterprises, and ensure "a genuinely fair and non-discriminatory business environment for all the non-EU enterprises."
French sports minister calls for sanctions after Monaco player tapes over anti
Sydney Sweeney put on a very leggy display in tiny metallic shorts and knee
Antiques Roadshow guest admits gambling wheel's true value probably 'scared his daughter to death'
Travelers blast 'aggressive' act carried out by plane passengers
Philippines blames China for loss of giant clams in disputed shoal and urges environmental inquiry
Solar storm hits Earth, producing northern lights in US
Sydney Sweeney put on a very leggy display in tiny metallic shorts and knee
Bedard scores twice as Canada rallies to beat Britain 4
Ship that caused Baltimore bridge collapse has been refloated
Brazil floods: Forecast to worsen in south
Rangers are undefeated at .500 to keep World Series champs from a losing record with Bochy
Closing prices for crude oil, gold and other commodities