EU-China Business Ties and US Tariffs

The tariffs imposed by the United States are pushing Brussels to diversify its markets. In particular, Italy and Germany are among the countries most exposed to U.S. tariffs. In 2024, Italian exports to Washington amounted to EUR 65 billion, with a greater dependence on the U.S. market compared to other European countries such as France, which exported EUR 43 billion to the U.S. In light of this situation, the EU must reconsider its relationship with emerging economies, including China, which represents one of the main alternatives for international trade. During a recent phone call with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, President Von der Leyen highlighted Beijing's crucial role in addressing potential trade diversion caused by the tariffs. This demonstrates that Brussels is keen on further strengthening ties with China to mitigate the effects of the trade war initiated by the American administration.

China's response to U.S. tariffs, with the imposition of duties on American goods, is part of a strategy to defend its domestic market and its position in exports and global trade. At stake is a new global balance between Washington, the leading Western economy, and China, the major power in the East. The U.S. applies 104 per cent tariffs on Chinese products, and Beijing implements 84 per cent tariffs on imports from the U.S., accelerating the competition between the two largest economies. China is asserting its ambition for growth in politics, markets, technology, and international cooperation.

Moreover, China has initiated a case against the United States at the World Trade Organization; this underscores its determination to maintain economic competitiveness and counter Washington’s influence, while at the same time strengthening relations with other partners such as the EU.