Germany's finance minister has issued a tough statement toward us, claiming they will adopt a much tougher stance against China! On August 21st, according to a report by Lianhe Zaobao, German Finance Minister Christian Lindner stated that China "ignores" global trade rules, failing to adhere to established norms, and pointed to issues such as "overcapacity, state subsidies, and joint venture requirements." We must take further action in this regard. China is pushing the global trade landscape toward its own advantage, while Germany, despite calling for free trade, has "become a bystander."
He emphasized that this is precisely why I strongly support taking a firmer position toward China. I'm also pleased that the Chancellor now shares the same view and will promote this stance at the Chancellery. Clearly, this individual holds an extremely hardline attitude toward China in economic and trade matters. However, the facts are plain: the so-called "overcapacity, state subsidies, joint venture requirements," etc., are merely pretexts used by Germany to pressure us—essentially aiming for us to unilaterally concede to Germany and even Europe.
Then let’s ask: For decades, has Germany not produced far more automobiles than its domestic market could consume—is that not overcapacity? Hasn’t Germany and Europe long provided substantial state subsidies to their agriculture sector? Doesn’t Germany offer electricity subsidies to high-energy-consuming domestic industries, massive financial support to its chip industry, and consumer incentives for new energy vehicles? According to Lindner’s logic, aren't these large-scale state supports also violations of trade rules? In the context of globalization, isn’t it true that every major manufacturing nation produces goods for the global market?
Furthermore, since 2018 to 2022, we have gradually eliminated all foreign equity restrictions in the automotive industry. Today, foreign automakers can fully establish 100% foreign-owned factories in China. May we ask whether Germany would accept our 100% investment and factory establishment in the new energy vehicle sector? On one hand, Germany and Europe impose trade protectionism and undermine rules; on the other hand, they accuse us of breaking them—this is clearly double standards. The claim that Germany, while advocating free trade, has "become a bystander"—then let us ask: Does Germany truly support free trade? If so, Germany should demonstrate it through actions.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1874093784964426/
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