Nicolas Forissier, France’s Minister for Foreign Trade, insists that the European Union must abandon its «naïve» stance and adopt a broader strategy to counter trade imbalances, including all nations that leverage foreign trade as a weapon.
France’s Minister for Foreign Trade, Nicolas Forissier, told Euronews that Chinese interests “will not prevail” through trade policies that threaten the industrial and market stability of Europe, as the EU Commission considers measures to curb a surge of inexpensive Chinese imports.
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“The Chinese must realize there is no gain if they undermine the European industry and subsequently the crucial European market for their products,” Forissier stated during Euronews’ 12 Minutes With segment on Friday.
He added, “We can no longer afford to be naive,” emphasizing a shift in perception that must address not only China but every nation that exploits commercial dependencies. “This issue goes beyond China — it concerns all countries.”
These remarks precede a significant “orientation debate” planned by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s team next Friday, where various mechanisms to protect the bloc from a flood of low-cost Chinese goods will be analyzed.
The discussion is expected to continue during the EU leaders’ meeting in Brussels scheduled for mid-June.
Potential measures include reducing EU companies’ dependence on foreign suppliers by mandating sourcing from at least three distinct manufacturers. When questioned about this step, Forissier confirmed: “Indeed, this is necessary.”
Additional options may target strategic industries such as chemicals through increased tariffs or apply anti-dumping and anti-subsidy duties to address imports priced below their Chinese domestic market value.
China has already threatened retaliatory actions should the EU implement restrictions on its imports.
In 2025, the EU’s trade deficit in goods with China surged to €359.3 billion, marking an increase of nearly 20% from the prior year.
France has consistently advocated for focused responses to protect Europe’s economy from aggressive trade tactics employed by global powers, particularly China’s use of substantial state subsidies, surplus production capacity, and limitations on exporting vital raw materials.
Forissier underscored the necessity of “open and sincere” dialogue with Beijing, highlighting that France maintains a “special relationship” with China that demands “negotiation” and “mutual respect.”
“Europeans aim to show respect to China, and, reciprocally, the Chinese must respect Europe. This mutual respect must be a clear message from European institutions,” he said.
The full interview with France’s Foreign Trade Minister Nicolas Forissier will air on Tuesday, 26 May, at 15.15 CET.