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EU will struggle to convert China policy into reality

Monday, April 24, 2023

Significance

Prior to their visit, von der Leyen outlined the Commission’s “de-risking” policy towards China, whose aims include enhancing strategic independence from China and protecting EU countries and companies from Chinese economic coercion. Despite the hawkish nature of de-risking, it does not reflect an EU-wide understanding of relations with China.

Impacts

  • The likely onset of austerity in many EU countries could make Chinese investment more attractive, especially in southern Europe.
  • Given the geopolitics of the war in Ukraine, some Central and Eastern European countries will become more hawkish towards China.
  • Von der Leyen is expected to present the first parts of her de-risking strategy to EU leaders at the next European Council meeting in June.

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