French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that the European Union could be forced to take “strong measures” against China, including tariffs, if Beijing does not address its growing trade surplus with the bloc. Speaking to Les Echos, Macron said China’s trade practices were unsustainable and harming European industries.
“I’m trying to explain to the Chinese that their trade surplus isn’t sustainable because they’re killing their own clients, notably by importing hardly anything from us any more,” Macron said. He added that if China fails to act, Europe may be compelled to decouple from Chinese trade, similar to measures taken by the United States, including imposing tariffs on Chinese products. Macron said he had discussed the issue with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
Macron made the remarks shortly after concluding a three-day state visit to China, during which he pressed for increased investment and sought to recalibrate France’s economic ties with the world’s second-largest economy. France’s goods trade deficit with China reached approximately €47 billion ($54.7 billion) last year, while China’s surplus with the EU soared to nearly $143 billion in the first half of 2025, setting a six-month record, according to Chinese data.
Tensions between France and China intensified last year after Paris supported EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, prompting Beijing to impose minimum price requirements on French cognac. French pork and dairy producers have since feared they could be the next targets.
Macron criticized the US approach to China as “inappropriate,” arguing that it worsened Europe’s position by redirecting Chinese goods toward the EU market. “Today, we’re stuck between the two, and it’s a question of life or death for European industry,” he said, noting that Germany does not fully share France’s stance.
Macron also highlighted the role of the European Central Bank, arguing that monetary policy should consider growth and employment alongside inflation. He warned that continued bond sales by the ECB could push up long-term interest rates and dampen economic activity, while emphasizing Europe’s commitment to monetary stability and credible investment.
