Chinese export flood puts EU tariff wall firmly on G7 agenda in France
G7 leaders in France are weighing a coordinated response to China’s surging exports, with discussion of higher tariffs on Chinese goods. The article says China posted a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus last year, while exports to the EU rose 16.4% in January-May, intensifying pressure on European industry, especially German manufacturers and automakers. Brussels already has sector-specific duties, including up to 35% on Chinese EVs, but France is pushing for a broader tariff wall. The market implication is increased trade-war risk for European equities tied to China and for export-sensitive industrial sectors, while China-exposed supply chains in EVs, batteries, machinery and commodities could face volatility if the summit produces concrete action.