GCCA Copenhagen Conference Insight: Navigating EU-China Trade Dynamics
We are pleased to share an exclusive article written by keynote speaker John Clarke following the recent GCCA Copenhagen Conference:” EU China: The Light That Fails?”
Click here to read more + picture attached + link towards article pdf
John Clarke is the Former Director Int’l Affairs EU Commission & Head EU Del to WTO and UN. Senior Trade negotiator. Journalist, Univ lecturer, consultant. Fellow Royal Asiatic Society, Board of Journal of Intl Trade Law and Regulation.
His article, “EU China: The Light That Fails?" focus is on the complex and evolving trade relations between the European Union and China in the context of rising global trade tensions, notably the U.S.'s impending tariff war. EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič's recent trip to China was aimed at resetting these strained relations, amidst aggressive U.S. trade policies and China's strategic manoeuvring in Europe.
The piece highlights how China, facing significant external pressures, is keen to avoid a two-front trade war and is thus courting European alignment more fervently than ever.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, the article stresses ongoing tensions over issues like cyberattacks, industrial subsidies, and China's support for Russia's actions in Ukraine. As both regions grapple with these challenges, the article also considers the potential for cooperation on multilateral fronts such as WTO reforms and climate commitments, setting a cautiously optimistic tone for future engagements. This piece is essential for understanding the intricate dance of diplomacy and economic strategy between two major global players. To get the whole story, read here.
