Several major European Union member states are pushing for tougher trade and industrial policies towards China as concerns grow about market distortions, overcapacity, and the impact of Chinese exports on European manufacturing.
According to media reports, France, led by a group of five EU countries, including Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Lithuania, supports strengthening trade and defense instruments and expanding the market for protective measures ahead of key discussions in Brussels on the future of China strategy.
European governments are seeking to strengthen trade protection measures
The move reflects growing concerns in Europe about overcapacity in China, subsidized exports, and growing pressure on European manufacturing sectors, including steel, automotive, and clean technology.
It is reported that the EU member states are calling on the European Commission to actively use anti-dumping measures, anti-subsidy investigations, rules for granting foreign subsidies and restrictions on purchases. The discussions come as the EU increasingly seeks to balance economic ties with China with the goals of industrial safety and strategic autonomy.
Germany moves to a tougher stance
Germany, traditionally considered one of the most China-friendly economies in Europe due to its strong industrial ties, is reportedly supporting more active trade instruments amid growing concerns about unfair competition and the risks of economic dependence. However, there is an internal debate in the country about the renegotiation of relations, and the document has not yet been signed.
Author: Stilorbis
Steelorbis.com
