Recently, in widely discussed news, Macron returned to France with a massive Airbus order, seemingly signaling the positive development of Sino-French relations.
However, it wasn't long before France launched an initiative against Chinese electric vehicles within the EU, which came as a shock.
This controversy did not end there; China swiftly retaliated by announcing anti-dumping measures against French brandy, causing great anxiety in France.
Behind this China-EU trade conflict lies a complex power struggle and contest of interests.
First, let’s examine the impact on French brandy.
As is well-known, French brandy, especially Cognac, has long been a symbol of luxury.
In China, with economic growth and significantly increased purchasing power, French brandy found a rich market.
Data shows that French brandy holds a 95% market share in China, highlighting its deep reliance on this market.
However, following the EU's decision to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, China promptly retaliated with temporary anti-dumping measures against French brandy.
This move left French brandy producers, who had hoped for profits from the Chinese market, deeply disappointed. Stocks of well-known brands like Hennessy and Rémy Martin fell, and luxury giant LVMH saw its market value drop by 3% in just one day.
Naturally, producers and farmers of French brandy could not stand by idly.
Those who originally planned to reap hefty profits from the Chinese market now faced the risk of unemployment and bankruptcy.
As protests and demonstrations grew, many directed their anger at the French government, accusing it of sacrificing the entire industry for political gain.
The plight of French brandy has become a casualty of Sino-European trade friction, and its bitter reality can only be truly felt by those involved.
Of course, this situation is not entirely the result of China's "turnaround"; France's own strategies deserve reflection.
Within the EU, discussions about imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles have been contentious.
Traditional industrial powers, represented by Germany, have been particularly cautious, recognizing that interdependence between nations cannot be overlooked in a globalized context.
Germany understands that imposing restrictions on Chinese products would inevitably provoke a counter-response from China, which would, in turn, impact the entire European economy.
The electric vehicle industry is already at a critical juncture; any rash actions would undoubtedly be self-defeating.
In contrast, France seems eager to take a leadership role within the EU, hoping to use this opportunity to suppress Chinese electric vehicles and support the recovery of domestic car brands.
During voting, France actively pushed for tariffs against China, displaying a tough stance, but such a "leading" action may not be wise.
In the face of China's rapid counterattack, France’s actions can be seen as self-sabotage, ultimately leading to significant harm to itself.
The divisions within the EU have become increasingly apparent, and Macron has previously warned that if the EU continues to be divided, it may face disintegration.
This warning is not unfounded, as he clearly recognizes the complexity of the current situation.
At this point, some may perceive China's reaction as somewhat "petty," believing that imposing tariffs shouldn't provoke such a significant backlash.
However, China's anti-dumping actions are not merely retaliatory; in reality, they serve as a warning to France and other EU countries.
China's countermeasures were swift and precise.
Immediately after the EU passed relevant resolutions, China announced anti-dumping measures against French brandy, a response speed that was clearly unexpected.
Moreover, the choice of target is strategically significant, as France's heavy dependence on brandy in the Chinese market directly touches on France's vulnerabilities.
More importantly, China's countermeasures are not just aimed at France but send a message to the entire EU: any country attempting to gain unfair trade advantages will face corresponding consequences.
The Ministry of Commerce has indicated that it is studying the possibility of imposing tariffs on imported high-displacement fuel vehicles, suggesting that if the situation worsens, other countries may also face challenges.
Fundamentally, this Sino-European trade friction is a microcosm of great power competition in the era of globalization.
France's rash actions have not only harmed its own interests but also serve as a warning to other countries: in today's globalized world, unilateralism and protectionism will ultimately face counteractions, leading to a result of mutual destruction.
China has always advocated for win-win cooperation and will not back down in the face of challenges. As the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated, China opposes trade wars but is not afraid of them.
At this moment, the ball is back in the EU's court. It must decide whether to continue aligning with France's stance or seek a return to a path of cooperation and mutual benefit, which tests the wisdom and courage of European leaders.
In the face of increasing downward pressure on the global economy, no country wishes to lose China as a crucial partner.
Looking back in history, there has never been a winner in a trade war.
From the economic Great Depression of the 1930s to the US-China trade frictions in the early 21st century, repeated lessons remind us that trade protectionism only leads to losses.
As two major global economies, China and Europe share extensive common interests and cooperative potential.
Both sides should work together to uphold the multilateral trading system and promote the construction of an open economy.
The "unexpected encounter" of French brandy may be an opportunity for China and Europe to reassess their relationship and find a path to win-win cooperation.
In an international environment full of uncertainties, only through unity and cooperation can challenges be met and a better future created.
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