Sustainable Food Systems -EU Policies, China's Approaches, and Pathways for China-CEEC Cooperation

Overview & Synopsis

This report explores the evolving cooperation between China, the European Union (EU), and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC) in the transformation of food systems toward sustainability, resilience, and innovation. It provides a comparative analysis of institutional models, policy frameworks, and technological approaches across regions, with a focus on mutual learning and strategic collaboration. Drawing on desk research, interviews, case studies, and stakeholder input, the report highlights high-potential areas for collaboration. It recommends institutional mechanisms such as tri-regional observatories, joint labs, and cross-border pilot programs to move beyond symbolic engagement toward integrated, context-sensitive partnerships. By leveraging complementary strengths-China's scaling capacity, the EU's governance expertise, and CEEC's regional positioning-the report outlines a set of suggestions for enhanced cooperation from which more equitable and environmentally compatible food futures may emerge.