China Joins Macron's G7-Eve Trade Call as EU Weighs Tougher Curbs on Low-Priced Exports
Updated
Updated · Reuters · Jun 11
China Joins Macron's G7-Eve Trade Call as EU Weighs Tougher Curbs on Low-Priced Exports
3 articles · Updated · Reuters · Jun 11
Summary
Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing joined Macron's video conference on global economic imbalances on Thursday, an unusual Chinese appearance in a G7-linked forum days before the June 15-17 summit in France.
Macron is using the call to test a cooperative path with Beijing before EU leaders meet right after the G7 and consider whether to harden trade policy toward Chinese goods.
Record Chinese exports — especially electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and other high-tech products — have intensified European concern over a 'second China shock' hitting local manufacturers.
Beijing rejects claims its exporters benefit unfairly from subsidies and says unilateral tariffs by other countries, not Chinese industrial policy, are undermining global trade rules.
EU capitals remain split on the response: Germany has resisted tariffs on a major export market, though pressure is rising as Chinese carmakers challenge German industry more directly.
Caught between US tariffs and Chinese exports, can a divided Europe save its industries from a two-front economic war?
As China's state-led model fractures global commerce, what will replace the crumbling rules-based trade order?
China is weaponizing its control of critical minerals. Can the West build new supply chains for its green transition in time?
Europe’s Response to China’s Export Surge: G7 Diplomacy, Protectionist Risks, and the Battle for Industrial Survival
Overview
French President Emmanuel Macron has initiated a video call between G7 countries and China ahead of the G7 summit in Evian, aiming to address global economic imbalances and rising trade tensions. This move is seen as a last-ditch effort to foster cooperation before the EU considers more protectionist policies. The call seeks to open direct communication on complex trade issues, hoping to prevent further escalation and find common ground for economic stability. Meanwhile, China opposes trade protectionism, arguing such measures are harmful, and urges Europe to adopt a rational approach to their trade relationship.