Germany Backs Tougher EU Curbs on Chinese Goods as Brussels Hardens Trade Defenses
Updated
Updated · POLITICO Europe · May 29
Germany Backs Tougher EU Curbs on Chinese Goods as Brussels Hardens Trade Defenses
10 articles · Updated · POLITICO Europe · May 29
Germany signaled support for firmer EU action to curb a surge of Chinese imports, marking a shift from Berlin’s earlier resistance to tougher trade steps.
Friday’s move bolstered a new European Commission push to strengthen the bloc’s trade defenses, with Ursula von der Leyen meeting commissioners to map future China policy.
France and other governments have already pressed for stronger protection of European industry, while Germany had warned harsh measures could trigger retaliation from Beijing.
Berlin’s change gives Brussels more political cover to keep China at arm’s length as the EU weighs a broader package of defensive trade policies.
How can Europe protect its industries without derailing its climate goals and starting a trade war with China?
As the EU builds its trade fortress, how will China's retaliation reshape global supply chains and alliances?
With 10,000 manufacturing jobs lost monthly, has Germany's pivot against China come too late to prevent deindustrialization?