China warns France, Germany against 'protectionist' trade tools

China has cautioned France and Germany against adopting protectionist trade measures, the country's commerce ministry stated on Tuesday. The ministry urged the two nations, as significant global economies, to maintain openness, cooperation, and free trade. Beijing expressed hope that France and Germany would steer clear of protectionist trade methods, which could ultimately harm themselves.

The warning comes after French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz penned a letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. They proposed that the EU develop a legal mechanism for immediate and decisive action, such as cutting off access to the European single market if necessary. While the letter did not explicitly mention China, it came as EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic prepares to visit Beijing to address trade disputes.

China's commerce ministry emphasized that France and Germany should avoid promoting the EU to use protectionist tools. The ministry stressed that adhering to openness, cooperation, and free trade is crucial for all major economies. The EU's main trade concern is its deficit with China, which Brussels claims is damaging key European sectors.

China's foreign ministry responded to the letter, stating that the economic and trade relationship between China and the EU is mutually beneficial. The ministry called for dialogue and consultation between the two parties to maintain stability and smooth global industrial and supply chains.