Gitta Connemann, the national chairwoman of the SME Union (CDU), is calling for enhanced protection for Europe against dumping prices originating from China. Speaking to RTL and ntv, she advocated for closing customs loopholes in trade with the People’s Republic, asserting that “we must abandon customs-free borders in Europe”.
Connemann referenced similar proposals from Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU), noting that these efforts have so far been “undermined by the Chinese side”. Her central goal is the creation of genuinely fair competitive conditions. She stressed that while China has the opportunity to enter the market, it must do so under “fair conditions, also from a European point of view, and according to our standards”.
Despite this call for stricter measures, Connemann maintained that a balanced approach is necessary. “We need a middle ground” she stated. She argued that while tools to protect against dumping are needed, China must also be treated as a “competitor, rival, but also a market”.
Beyond governmental policy, Connemann emphasized the responsibility of consumers. She told the public that everyone needs to recognize that their purchasing decisions, whether made at the checkout or online, determine the socio-economic conditions in which they live. Ordering from platforms like Temu or Shein often leads to the purchase of products that do not meet European standards, which consequently has serious repercussions for both the environment and domestic European businesses.
