Germany and France Call for Stricter EU Measures Against Chinese Imports
Germany and France want import quotas implemented across the EU in additional sectors such as chemicals, machinery, and pharmaceuticals in order to close the record trade deficit with China.
Germany is preparing to request the implementation of European Union safeguard measures to limit product imports from China in additional sectors such as chemicals, mechanical engineering, and pharmaceuticals.
Germany's Demand for Protection for Additional Sectors
Germany will request the implementation of EU safeguard measures to limit imports from China in areas such as chemicals, mechanical engineering, and potentially the pharmaceutical sector.
As the German government prepares to pressure the European Commission to present concrete proposals by the end of the year, these measures aim to curb sudden surges in imports.
Summit in Brussels and the Trade Deficit
EU leaders will gather in Brussels to address the massive trade deficit with China, which reached a record $34.8 billion in September.
Steps to prevent China from flooding the market with subsidized products and straining local industry will be discussed at the summit.
Hybrid Vehicle Agreement and First Steps
Under the 16-point agreement signed between Beijing and Brussels last week, it was announced that a ceiling limit of 350,000 would be imposed on the number of China-origin hybrid vehicles.
Although German and French officials view this agreement as a positive step, they emphasize that the trade imbalance extends beyond the automotive sector.
Political Consensus and New Measures from Leaders
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron are seeking political consensus to grant authority to the commission for stricter trade measures.
On the sidelines of the summit, France is expected to show flexibility on internal combustion engine policies, while Germany is expected to soften its criticisms regarding the 'Buy European Products' rule.