Macron warns EU may impose tariffs on Chinese goods over trade deficit

The European Union could consider introducing trade tariffs on Chinese goods if Beijing does not address the trade deficit between the EU and China, French President Emmanuel Macron said in an interview with Les Echos.

“I told them that if they do not respond, we Europeans will be forced in the coming months to take tough measures and even break cooperation, following the example of the United States, for instance by imposing customs duties on Chinese goods,” Macron said. He added that he has already discussed the potential introduction of such tariffs with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

At the same time, Macron stressed that forming a united European front on this issue will be difficult. Germany may oppose such measures due to the significant presence of German companies in China.

However, the French president expressed hope for a peaceful resolution of differences. He called for a “mutual renunciation of aggressive policies,” including Europe’s restrictions on exporting semiconductor manufacturing equipment and China’s limits on exporting rare earth metals.

Macron visited China this week on a state visit. On December 4, he held talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

By Khagan Isayev