Overview
- Returning from a visit to China, Emmanuel Macron told Les Echos he warned Beijing that Europe would move to impose duties within months if the trade imbalance is not reduced.
- Macron argues Chinese competition is hitting the core of Europe’s machine-tool and automotive-centered model and says the pressure has become a matter of survival for European industry.
- He says Europe should accept Chinese investment to help rebalance trade provided it is not predatory, citing exposure in batteries, electric vehicles, solar and wind, lithium refining, consumer electronics, recycling technologies, robotics and advanced components.
- He calls for EU action to protect vulnerable sectors such as autos and to relaunch competitiveness through a simpler, deeper single market, more innovation investment, firmer border protections, completion of the customs union and adjusted monetary policy.
- He acknowledges EU unity remains difficult, noting Germany is not fully aligned, and he places Europe’s dilemma in the context of U.S. tariffs on China that were trimmed from 57% to 47% in an October agreement.