China ‘won’t win anything’ if it ‘destroys’ Europe’s industry, French minister tells Euronews

France Warns China: Aggressive Trade Practices May Harm European Interests

China won t win anything if it - French Minister for Foreign Trade Nicolas Forissier has issued a strong warning to China, asserting that the country's current approach to trade may ultimately work against its own goals if it continues to disrupt Europe's industrial and market systems. Speaking to Euronews during a recent interview, Forissier emphasized that China's strategy of flooding European markets with inexpensive goods could lead to unintended consequences for both sides. "The Chinese will not gain anything if they adopt policies that damage Europe’s industries and markets," he said, highlighting the need for a more balanced trade relationship. His remarks come as the European Union prepares to implement stricter measures to counter the surge of cheap Chinese imports, which have been a growing concern for European economies.

Shift in EU Trade Strategy

The European Commission is set to hold a critical “orientation debate” next Friday, where officials will discuss a range of tools to protect the bloc from the influx of low-cost Chinese products. Forissier noted that this debate represents a turning point in the EU’s approach to trade, signaling a move away from previous leniency toward Chinese exporters. "We can no longer afford to be naive," he stated, stressing that the EU must now take a firm stance against trade practices that prioritize short-term gains over long-term stability. This includes addressing the overcapacity in Chinese manufacturing, which has led to a surplus of goods that undercut European producers.

"The Chinese have to understand that they won't win anything if they destroy the European industry and then the European market, which is an essential market for them," Forissier told Euronews’ 12 Minutes With interview programme on Friday.

Forissier also pointed out that the EU’s strategy is not limited to China. He argued that the bloc must adopt a more comprehensive approach to trade, targeting all countries that use economic leverage to secure favorable conditions. "It's not just about China or not," he explained. "It’s about all the countries that weaponise commercial dependencies to achieve their own interests." This perspective reflects a growing awareness among European leaders that trade policies must be strategically aligned with broader economic goals, rather than being reactive to individual crises.

Proposed Measures to Strengthen EU Resilience

Among the potential tools under discussion are policies aimed at reducing the EU’s reliance on foreign suppliers, particularly in key industries. Forissier suggested that requiring companies to source components from at least three different suppliers could help insulate European markets from disruptions caused by overdependent supply chains. "Yes, we have to introduce such measures," he affirmed, adding that this approach would foster greater resilience against sudden shifts in global trade dynamics. The plan would not only diversify the bloc’s industrial base but also create a more level playing field for European producers.

Other options being considered include imposing additional tariffs on strategic sectors, such as chemicals, to offset the price advantage of Chinese imports. Forissier also mentioned the possibility of using anti-dumping or anti-subsidy duties to correct the imbalance in trade prices. "We need to ensure that European industries are not left vulnerable to unfair competition," he said. These measures are designed to address the root causes of the trade imbalance, rather than just treating the symptoms. By targeting the mechanisms that allow Chinese products to flood the market at artificially low prices, the EU aims to create a sustainable trade environment for its own businesses.

The urgency of these discussions is underscored by the EU’s record trade deficit with China, which reached an unprecedented €359.3 billion in 2025—a significant increase from the previous year. Forissier highlighted the gravity of this figure, noting that it reflects the impact of China’s aggressive trade tactics on European economic stability. "This deficit is a clear indicator of the need for action," he said. "If we don’t address it, we risk losing critical industries to foreign competition." The challenge lies in balancing protectionist measures with the goal of maintaining open trade relations, a task that requires careful negotiation and strategic planning.

China's Retaliation and the Risk of Escalation

China has already expressed its concerns about potential EU restrictions, warning of retaliatory actions if the bloc moves forward with its plans. Forissier acknowledged this possibility but insisted that the EU must proceed with its strategy. "China has to respect us, just as we try to respect them," he said. This mutual respect is seen as a cornerstone of the EU’s approach to trade, with France playing a leading role in advocating for a more assertive stance. The minister emphasized that the EU’s goal is not to impose harsh penalties but to establish a fairer trade framework that benefits all parties.

France has long been a vocal advocate for targeted trade measures against aggressive practices by major global powers. Forissier reiterated this position, stating that the EU must act decisively to safeguard its economic interests. "We need to be more specific in our actions," he said. "This is about ensuring that European industries can compete on equal terms." The minister also called for greater transparency in China’s industrial policies, pointing out that the country’s heavy-handed state subsidies and restrictions on raw material exports have played a significant role in the trade imbalance. "We have to address these factors directly," he added, stressing that China’s reliance on European markets means it cannot afford to damage its own economic prospects.

Building a Strategic Dialogue

Forissier underscored the importance of maintaining open dialogue with China, even as the EU strengthens its trade defenses. "Our special relationship with China requires ongoing negotiations and a commitment to mutual respect," he said. This sentiment reflects a broader EU effort to balance protectionist measures with diplomatic engagement. By fostering a constructive dialogue, European leaders hope to address trade imbalances without resorting to outright conflict. "We are not looking to create enemies," Forissier explained. "We want to ensure that trade remains a win-win situation for all involved."

As the EU prepares for its upcoming debates and potential policy changes, the message is clear: China must adapt its trade practices to align with Europe’s interests. Forissier’s comments highlight a shift in the EU’s approach, moving from passive tolerance to active resistance against unfair competition. "This is a necessary step to protect our industries and markets," he concluded. The minister’s remarks are expected to influence the direction of the EU’s trade strategy, setting the stage for a more assertive stance in the months ahead. With European leaders set to gather in Brussels in mid-June, the conversation on trade policy will likely continue, with France at the forefront of advocating for a balanced and sustainable approach.

You can watch the full interview with France’s Foreign Trade Minister Nicolas Forissier on Tuesday, 26 May, at 15.15 CET. The discussion provides valuable insights into the EU’s evolving trade strategy and the challenges posed by global economic competition. As the bloc moves closer to implementing its measures, the stakes for both Europe and China have never been higher. Forissier’s warning serves as a reminder that trade is not just about economic gains—it is also about protecting the integrity of industrial systems and ensuring long-term stability for all participants in the global economy.