China reiterates EU supply-chain links are market-driven, warns against disguised protectionism

China reiterated on Monday that the deep integration and interdependence between China and the European Union in industrial and supply chains are the result of economic globalization and market forces, serving the interests of businesses on both sides.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian made the remarks at a regular news briefing while commenting on reports that the EU is advancing a proposal to force companies to avoid over-reliance on certain supply chains, as the bloc reassesses its trade ties with China.

Lin questioned the logic behind labeling corporate choices made based on cost and efficiency as "over-dependency", suggesting that what the EU calls "diversification" could be a form of disguised protectionism.

He said that the EU's approach is not conducive to enhancing its own industrial competitiveness and runs counter to its professed commitment to a market economy, fair competition, and free trade.

"China-EU economic and trade relations are not a zero-sum game," the spokesman said. "They can be mutually beneficial and achieve win-win outcomes."

Lin added that China maintains an open and positive attitude toward resolving economic and trade differences with the EU and expressed hope that the EU will work with China to resolve issues through dialogue and consultation, promoting bilateral cooperation to better benefit enterprises and people on both sides.