European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has issued a stark warning about China's trade policies, describing them as "unfair" and distorting global markets. Her comments come as former US President Donald Trump threatens to impose even harsher tariffs on Chinese goods if re-elected.
Speaking at a recent event, von der Leyen emphasised that China's industrial overcapacity and state subsidies create an uneven playing field, harming European businesses. "The world cannot absorb China's excess production," she stated, urging Beijing to address these imbalances.
Trump's Tariff Proposal
Meanwhile, Trump has vowed to escalate trade tensions with China, suggesting tariffs of 60% or higher on Chinese imports. His aggressive stance contrasts with the Biden administration's more measured approach, setting the stage for a potential trade war.
EU's Balancing Act
The European Union finds itself caught between maintaining economic ties with China and protecting its industries from unfair competition. Von der Leyen's remarks signal growing frustration within the bloc, though she stopped short of endorsing Trump's extreme measures.
Analysts warn that escalating trade barriers could disrupt global supply chains and inflate consumer prices worldwide. As geopolitical tensions rise, businesses brace for further uncertainty in international trade relations.
