EU-China trade relations enter fractious new era, Brussels insider warns
During the UBS Asian Investment Conference held in Hong Kong on Thursday, Brussels lobbyist and former US diplomat, Koplovsky, discussed a notable evolution in Europe’s stance towards China. He emphasized that the European perspective has transformed from viewing China as a collaborative partner to recognizing it as a formidable competitor. This change stems from China’s rapid progress in sectors such as solar energy, wind energy, batteries, and electric vehicles, which pose threats to European industries. Although Europe does not perceive China as a direct adversary like the United States, the focus on competitive dynamics with Beijing is becoming increasingly pronounced.
Key facts
- Koplovsky is a Brussels lobbyist and visiting professor at the College of Europe.
- He spoke at the UBS Asian Investment Conference in Hong Kong on Thursday.
- Europe now views China as a sophisticated competitor, not a partner.
- Chinese advances in solar, wind, batteries, and EVs are driving the shift.
- Europe's attitude change is less pronounced than in the United States.
- Brussels views its relationship with Beijing as competition.
- Washington views its relationship with Beijing as strategic rivalry.
- Koplovsky warned the rift could deepen further.
Entities
Institutions
- European Union
- UBS
- College of Europe
Locations
- Brussels
- Hong Kong
- China
- Europe
- United States
- Washington