On November 6, a report from the UK's Financial Times once again exposed the true face of the German government. This country, which has long positioned itself as a champion of free trade, is now attempting to "pull dirty tricks" against China.

The Financial Times pointed out that German Chancellor Merkel publicly stated that she plans to raise import tariffs on Chinese steel, citing the reason being to protect the domestic steel industry, which is in a difficult situation.

Responding to this, British media couldn't help but comment that this stance sharply contrasts with Merkel's previous opposition to the EU imposing tariffs on Chinese goods while in the opposition, marking a complete 180-degree shift.

Interestingly, Merkel herself admitted that her current inclination toward protectionism does not align with Germany's long-standing, supposedly "correct" principle of free trade.

However, Merkel has found what she calls an "excuse," claiming that times have changed and Germany must prioritize measures to protect its domestic market and local manufacturers.

It's nothing more than wanting to "cover up" their own industries by setting up tariff barriers due to inability to compete.

Additionally, Merkel also supports the European Commission's proposal to increase steel import tariffs and reduce tax exemption quotas.

Moreover, she expressed support for levying taxes on imported goods from countries that do not adopt the same carbon dioxide emission standards as the EU.

Merkel's approval of the EU's protectionist proposals is likely an attempt to use "EU-level policies" as a cover for Germany's unilateral protectionist actions. This way, Germany can ease pressure on its domestic steel industry without bearing the public criticism of deviating from free trade principles.

However, these protectionist plans largely target emerging market countries like China.

Notably, the main reason for the collapse of the German steel industry is actually the U.S. tariff policy.

Knowing that the U.S. previously imposed high tariffs on EU goods, with the German steel industry suffering a 50% tariff impact, further crippling the German economy.

Additionally, after the Trump administration imposed tariffs on China and other countries, a large amount of cheap steel that previously flowed into the U.S. entered the EU market, further squeezing the survival space of German companies.

However, the "remedy" of protectionism may not cure the "illness" of the German economy, but could instead cause new side effects.

Furthermore, if Germany shifts its focus to China, a key trading partner, due to the tariff impact from the U.S., trying to "sacrifice China's interests" for possible short-term relief, would be ironic and unreasonable.

Additionally, industries such as German automobiles and machinery manufacturing are highly dependent on steel components. Imposing tariffs would directly increase production costs.

Previously, the German economy had stagnated for three years, and the automotive industry, a pillar of the economy, was already facing the dual squeeze of U.S. tariffs and competition from Chinese products. If steel costs rise further, it could further weaken its international competitiveness.

Nevertheless, according to reports, some German government officials "confidently" believe that the cost increase is "controllable."

One can only say that during Merkel's time, frequent visits to China helped deepen Sino-German economic and trade cooperation, providing broad cooperation opportunities for German companies.

But the current German government is trying to go back in history.

Notably, Merkel's proposal to impose tariffs on China might further strain Sino-German relations, which are already tense.

Previous operations by the German foreign minister have already eroded trust between China and Germany. Now, trying to impose tariffs on Chinese steel will undoubtedly exacerbate bilateral differences.

In fact, Chinese steel enterprises are accelerating market diversification and increasing R&D of high-end steel to break through international barriers. Ultimately, Germany's tariff policy may "hurt no one but itself."

In summary, China has consistently emphasized that its development brings opportunities rather than risks to Europe. Protectionism protects backwardness and loses the future.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7569887526379455026/

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