• Macron threatens China with tariffs if trade surplus persists.
• The EU's trade deficit with China has exceeded €300 billion.
• Macron calls for more Chinese investments in Europe.
• Germany's stance complicates consensus within the EU on tariffs.

French President Emmanuel Macron has threatened to impose tariffs on Chinese goods if Beijing does not take action to address its significant trade surplus with the European Union. In remarks published by Le Monde, Macron stated, "I told them that if they don't react, we Europeans will be forced to take strong measures in the coming months," referencing potential tariffs similar to those imposed by the United States.

The EU's trade deficit with China has surpassed €300 billion in 2024, a significant rise reflecting a growing imbalance. According to Reuters, the EU's goods trade deficit with China has climbed nearly 60% since 2019, highlighting urgent economic concerns within the bloc. Macron underscored that the EU includes 27 member states which cannot individually set trade policies, as they are represented collectively by the EU Commission.

During his recent state visit to China, Macron pointed out the challenges of achieving a consensus among EU members on the tariff issue, especially as Germany, which has substantial economic ties with China, is not fully aligned with France’s stance. He noted, "Germany is not yet entirely aligned with our position," as reported by Channel News Asia.

Macron also articulated the need for a more cooperative approach, urging China to increase its imports from the EU to balance trade. He stated, "We cannot always be importing; Chinese companies must come to Europe," emphasizing that investments from China should not be predatory, a sentiment echoed throughout his discussions. He proposed that the EU accept more Chinese direct investment to mitigate the persistent trade imbalance according to Reuters and Le Monde.