Macron and Merz Propose EU Trade Kill Switch

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have proposed a new trade mechanism designed to allow the European Union to rapidly restrict market access for third countries that cause severe systemic distortions. In a joint paper and letter addressed to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the leaders called for a "kill switch" tool that could enable an "immediate cut-off" from the EU internal market.

The proposal seeks to grant the European Commission decisive powers to respond to trade threats. This mechanism would be activated by a reversed qualified majority, providing a systemic reaction to market distortions. The move signals a significant shift in EU trade policy, specifically targeting China ahead of critical negotiations.