Beijing, 8 March 2026 – China’s top diplomat Wang Yi has urged European nations to move away from protectionist policies and deepen economic cooperation with China, calling on them to “step out of the attic of protectionism and enter the gym of the Chinese market.”
Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of China’s annual parliamentary meetings, Wang said closer economic engagement between China and Europe could help both sides strengthen competitiveness and achieve a more balanced trade relationship.
Call for Greater Economic Cooperation
Wang framed the China–Europe relationship as one built on complementary strengths, arguing that cooperation rather than barriers would better serve both economies.
“We would be happy to see our European friends step out of the protectionist ‘attic’ and come to the ‘gym’ of the Chinese market, where they can build up their muscles and boost their competitiveness,” he said.
He also warned that policies aimed at restricting trade or investment could lead to economic isolation rather than improved security or resilience. According to Wang, economic interdependence between China and the European Union should not be viewed as a risk but rather as a foundation for stability and shared growth.
China–EU Trade Continues to Expand
Despite rising geopolitical tensions and trade disputes in recent years, economic ties between China and Europe have remained substantial.
Official Chinese customs data shows that bilateral trade between China and the European Union reached 5.93 trillion yuan (approximately US$860 billion) in 2025, representing a 6% increase from the previous year.
The figures highlight the deep economic interdependence between the two markets, with Europe remaining one of China’s largest trading partners and a key destination for Chinese exports.
Strategic Messaging Amid Global Economic Shifts
Wang’s remarks come at a time when Europe is reassessing its economic relationship with China, balancing trade opportunities with concerns about supply-chain security, industrial policy and geopolitical alignment.
Beijing has been actively encouraging European countries to adopt a more pragmatic approach to cooperation, particularly as global economic fragmentation and protectionist policies reshape trade flows.
Analysts say the comments underscore China’s effort to reassure international partners that it remains committed to openness and global economic integration, even as competition between major powers intensifies.
