Nemški strokovnjak razkriva, kako lahko Evropa ustavi kitajsko industrijsko prevlado

A German expert has outlined how Europe can counter China’s growing industrial dominance through targeted technological strategies, according to reports from local media. The analysis suggests that while Western industries, particularly in Europe, are not doomed, they must adopt more focused approaches to remain competitive against Chinese advancements. The expert, Martin Goring, director of industry policy research at the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), emphasized that past successes in European industrial resilience have often hinged on niche technologies. He noted that Europe has historically found ways to respond to threats posed by other nations’ technological superiority, and that these responses typically revolved around specialized expertise rather than broad-based competition. Goring explained that the key lies in identifying and promoting specific technologies where Europe holds comparative advantages. He pointed to the automotive sector as a prime example, noting that Germany once succeeded in the Chinese market due to perceptions of superior quality. However, this advantage has diminished as Chinese manufacturers increasingly focus on electric vehicles, which are central to future mobility trends. He argued that Germany's failure to adapt to the shift toward e-mobility has left its automotive industry at a disadvantage. “German cars were once preferred in China because buyers believed them to be better,” he told dpa. “Today, they ask themselves why they should pay more for inferior cars made in Germany.” Goring further criticized the concept of “technological neutrality” as a flawed approach. He stated that such a stance, which avoids favoring particular technologies, has led to complacency in sectors like the auto industry. Instead, he advocated for policies that actively promote innovation and competitiveness, particularly in response to China’s expanding influence. He suggested that imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles would not effectively protect European industries, calling it a “nightmare scenario.” According to him, such measures fail to incentivize adaptation and instead create artificial barriers without fostering genuine progress. To address the challenge, Goring called for a more aggressive trade policy aimed at maintaining competitiveness with China. He proposed that Europe should explore alternative strategies, including the implementation of special tariffs, a practice commonly used within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). In addition to tariff adjustments, Goring stressed the importance of applying pressure through competition to drive technological advancement. He believes that a more proactive approach is necessary to prevent China from gaining further control over global markets. As the debate over industrial strategy continues, experts suggest that Europe must move beyond passive defense mechanisms and embrace innovative, targeted solutions to maintain its position in the global economy. The path forward will likely involve a combination of regulatory reforms, investment in strategic sectors, and a renewed emphasis on technological leadership.