Beijing: China on Monday questioned the EU’s push for trade diversification as “just another version of protectionism.” “The so-called European diversification, isn’t it just another version of protectionism?” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said during a regular news conference in Beijing.

According to Anadolu Agency, Lin emphasized that the European measures might not enhance the competitiveness of European industries. He argued that such strategies contradict the EU’s proclaimed principles of market economy, fair competition, and free trade. Lin cited a Chinese adage, “Do not do unto others what you would not have others do unto you,” to underline his point.

Lin further elaborated that China-EU trade should not be perceived as a “zero-sum game” and expressed optimism about the potential for mutual success. He urged the EU to work with China to “find solutions through dialogue and consultation,” allowing business communities and citizens on both sides to reap greater benefits from China-EU trade.

The EU’s recent initiative involves a proposal requiring companies to reduce overreliance in their supply chains, as part of an effort to recalibrate its trade relationship with China. The China-EU bilateral trade volume reached £759 billion ($874 billion) in 2025, with China being the EU’s third-largest trading partner in goods and services.