China's export dependency: "China is also dependent on Europe"

Europe should demand compensation from China for market access, says China expert Tim Rühlig. He has researched what measures it can take to exert pressure.

Article summary

The USA is no longer a reliable partner – should Europe rely on China? Tim Rühlig warns against focusing solely on Beijing. Europe must act as an independent actor and defend its interests. China’s apparent strength also presents weaknesses, particularly in weak domestic demand. Europe’s strategy should build on its own strengths and create interdependencies to contain China’s economic power. It is important to develop a credible escalation capability and confront China under new conditions.

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Production of solar modules in Suqian, China: The Chinese economy is always dependent on exports.
© Cfoto/Future Publishing/Getty Images

THE TIME: The USA under Donald Trump is no longer a reliable partner. Europe should get stronger again China set?

Tim Rühlig: No. I think it’s wrong to turn back to Beijing because you think you can’t take on two giants at the same time. Europe is currently not taken seriously as a geopolitical actor in either Washington or Beijing. We must fundamentally send the signal that we are able to defend our own interests – and do so credibly to all sides. Our relations with China should not be made dependent on those with the USA and vice versa.