There is a call for intensified investigation into Chinese practices and for coordinated EU action to avoid a patchwork of bilateral deals.

De Wever urges placing a tougher China agenda high on the European Council summit agenda in Cyprus in April.

Europe must adopt a firmer, more coherent stance toward China, moving from viewing it as partner, competitor, and systemic rival to a unified policy that protects Europe’s industrial base.

Concerns are raised about China’s control of global supply chains, including export restrictions on critical materials, cyber and espionage risks, and Beijing’s support for Russia, with potential Taiwan‑related semiconductor disruptions ahead.

Chinese commentary notes Europe seeks balanced diplomacy with the US and China, but domestic fragmentation and old paradigms hinder a coherent strategy, with cooperation remaining foundational.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi says China‑EU ties are built on shared interests, with trade over a trillion dollars and vibrant visa-free tourism, arguing openness strengthens economic security.

Early 2026 data reportedly show a near 20% year‑over‑year surge in Chinese exports, underscoring the urgency of a tougher China policy.

In a letter to the EU’s Ursula von der Leyen, De Wever argues China’s export-led growth—notably in green tech, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals—erodes European industry and involves forced tech transfers and alleged IP breaches, describing China as devastating Europe’s economy.

He calls for stronger EU investigative powers, closer coordination across member states, and diversified partnerships with like-minded blocs (the US, Canada, Japan, India) to counterbalance China.

Experts warn that protectionism can backfire, stressing mutual interests and interdependence in China‑EU ties and noting that internal EU divisions and productivity issues also shape the relationship.

European leaders express mixed views: France questions China’s trade surplus sustainability; Germany warns about competitiveness; China maintains that Sino‑EU ties should be based on mutual benefit and openness.

Some Chinese analysts frame De Wever’s stance as protectionist scapegoating aimed at addressing EU competitiveness, amid ongoing cooperation and recent high-level visits.