China Warns France and Germany Against EU Protectionism

The Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China warned France and Germany against pushing the European Union toward protectionist trade policies following a joint proposal submitted to the European Commission. French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz signed a letter urging Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to implement a new trade diversification instrument and strengthened trade defense measures.

Beijing characterized the move as a dangerous politicization of economic issues under the guise of security concerns. The ministry urged both nations to abide by World Trade Organization rules and maintain global openness, arguing that decoupling supply chains harms all parties and does not enhance competitiveness. The ministry further advised against overextending the concept of national security, stating such actions would ultimately backfire.

The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU echoed these concerns, noting that such mechanisms could undermine mutual trust before scheduled China-EU trade talks. Simultaneously, some German business leaders warned that irresponsible rhetoric regarding economic kill switches and escalating retaliation would harm consumers and businesses on both sides.