Steinmeier urges balance in China trade

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier told Chinese officials on Thursday that Beijing must prevent its economic self-sufficiency from creating one-sided dependence for other nations. Speaking at Peking University, Steinmeier addressed the growing trade imbalance between Europe and China. He acknowledged the validity of China's desire to shield its economy from external shocks, yet he insisted that this independence should not leave other markets vulnerable.

Steinmeier is currently on a five-day visit to China, which runs until Saturday. During his stay, he is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. The visit coincides with rising tensions over trade policy. The European Union recently declared its widening deficit with China unsustainable. Brussels warned last month that it would employ every available tool to correct the imbalance. Germany and France have also proposed a new rapid-action measure for the EU to counter countries that harm its interests, with China likely to be a primary target.

In his address, Steinmeier detailed specific grievances held by European firms. He noted that many companies have lost access to the Chinese market or face minimal entry opportunities. Conversely, European markets absorb large volumes of state-subsidized Chinese goods. Steinmeier also pointed to Beijing’s controls and limits on raw material exports as a source of friction. He stated that Europe is determined to maintain its industrial base while remaining open to dialogue.

Steinmeier expressed confidence that Brussels and Beijing could resolve these issues through conversation. He rejected the idea of a new bloc confrontation, describing such a scenario as dangerous for international security and economically costly for all parties involved. The speech outlined a diplomatic approach focused on balancing protectionism with open market access.