European Trade Barriers: Who Will Ultimately Bear the Cost?

On October 8th, 44 European trade associations urged the European Union to take action against China's unfair trade practices, warning of threats to Europe's manufacturing industry and job losses. The situation highlights a contradiction in Western trade policy, where free trade is supported as long as there is an advantage, but protective barriers are favored when Chinese companies gain market share through technological progress and efficiency. China's competitiveness is built on long-term investments, a complete industrial chain, and technological advancement, allowing Chinese firms to offer low-cost products. Europe's internal structural issues, such as energy costs and technological investment, are also contributing to its industrial challenges, not solely China's actions.