French finance minister urges caution as Paris agency proposes 30% China tariff

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Xiaofei XuFebruary 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM

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A debate over tariffs on Chinese goods is intensifying in France. While France's High Commission for Strategy and Planning proposed a 30% tariff on all Chinese imports to the EU to protect European industry, Finance Minister Roland Lescure urged caution and a more targeted approach. Lescure acknowledged China's unsustainable trade surplus with Europe but argued against a blanket tariff, emphasizing the need for continued engagement with Beijing. He stated that targeted tariffs could address unfair competition, alongside efforts to boost European competitiveness. Lescure noted China's stated intention to shift towards domestic consumption, but expressed concern that concrete results have yet to materialize.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

European Union ×270% Roland Lescure ×380% France ×380% China ×490%

Keywords

china tariff 90% trade surplus 70% trade imbalances 60% european union 60% unfair competition 50% domestic consumption 50% currency depreciation 40% economic policy 40%