China's Ministry of Commerce Criticizes Reported Franco-German Push for EU Trade Tool Against China
The Ministry of Commerce has criticized a reported initiative by France and Germany to create an EU trade mechanism resembling the US Section 301, labeling it as protectionist and unilateralist, and warned of a resolute response from Beijing.
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According to the South China Morning Post, the Ministry of Commerce has voiced criticism regarding a reported push from France and Germany for the European Union to establish a trade instrument comparable to the US Section 301 in order to counter China. The Ministry characterized this proposed action as "protectionist and unilateralist" and cautioned that Beijing would "resolutely respond" to any discriminatory actions taken against Chinese companies or goods.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Ministry noted that the EU has previously experienced the negative effects of such tools, advising that the EU should not impose actions on others that it would not accept itself.
The Ministry also expressed displeasure with the timing of this reported push, which occurs as both Beijing and Brussels are preparing for a second round of trade discussions this month. The Ministry stated that if the EU simultaneously engages in consultation and dialogue with China while also increasing its displays of strength against China, this action would significantly harm mutual trust, disrupt the entire consultation process, and negatively impact the wider scope of economic and trade cooperation between China and the EU.
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