China’s Ambassador to France Calls for Cooperation on EVs, Rejects “Unnecessary” Trade Imbalance
China’s ambassador to France, Deng Li, has called for greater cooperation between China and Europe in emerging industries such as electric vehicles (EVs) and clean energy, saying the two sides should focus on shared development rather than confrontation.
Speaking in Paris during a business forum, Deng said that “progress cannot be stopped,” stressing that technological competition should not lead to protectionism.
His remarks come as the European Union weighs whether to impose additional tariffs on Chinese electric cars following an anti-subsidy investigation launched earlier this year. The probe has heightened tension between Beijing and Brussels amid accusations that Chinese firms enjoy unfair state support.
China–Europe economic interdependence
Deng underscored that China’s economic engagement with Europe is built on mutual benefit rather than dependence or surplus accumulation.
“China has no interest in pursuing a trade surplus that is completely unnecessary,” he said, noting that Beijing’s industrial development is aimed at meeting domestic demand while contributing to the global green transition.
He added that both China and the EU have a responsibility to set examples for sustainable cooperation and avoid politicising economic competition.
Trade data from the Ministry of Commerce show that China–EU bilateral trade reached US$783 billion in 2024, making the bloc China’s second-largest trading partner after ASEAN. Electric vehicles, batteries, and renewable-energy technologies accounted for a growing share of that trade as both sides accelerate decarbonisation targets.
Addressing the EV tariff dispute
European officials argue that Chinese subsidies have distorted market competition, giving domestic automakers an advantage in price and scale. Beijing has rejected the accusation, saying its EV sector’s growth is driven by innovation, efficiency, and strong consumer demand.
Deng reiterated that China hopes to resolve the dispute through dialogue, urging the EU to approach the issue “objectively and fairly.”
“Europe and China can complement each other,” he said. “China leads in production scale, while Europe has deep expertise in design and innovation. Together, we can create a win-win industrial ecosystem.”
Promoting joint innovation and market openness
Beijing’s diplomatic outreach to European governments in recent months has emphasized joint research partnerships, cross-border supply chains, and technology-sharing frameworks.
Chinese EV makers such as BYD and NIO have expanded production bases and research facilities in Hungary, France, and the Netherlands, contributing to local employment and green-industry growth.
Analysts say China’s message is clear it seeks cooperation rather than confrontation, especially as both economies face slowing growth and pressure from global trade fragmentation.
Deng concluded that the future of China–EU relations depends on “rational policymaking and shared commitment to open markets.” He added that both sides “must resist the impulse to turn green technology into a geopolitical weapon” and instead view innovation as a bridge for economic recovery.
