Merz and Macron want the EU to hit back harder - and faster - against trade threats
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron have proposed giving the European Commission greater authority to rapidly block imports that threaten the EU's economic or security interests. The move aims to strengthen the EU's trade defense capabilities amid ongoing tensions with China.
Why it matters
This proposal represents a significant shift toward more protectionist trade policies within the EU, potentially impacting global trade relations.
France and Germany want to give Brussels new powers to rapidly block imports deemed an economic or security threat.
Copy Link Copied Share via email Share on X Share on WhatsApp Share on LinkedIn Free article usually reserved for subscribers Friedrich Merz and Emmanuel Macron are pictured in Brühl, Germany on July 17, 2026. | Sascha Schuermann/Getty Images October 5, 2026 3:21 pm CET By Hans von der Burchard , Carlo Martuscelli , Giorgio Leali , Jordyn Dahl and Camille Gijs BERLIN — The European Commission needs the power to act much faster against trade threats, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and French President Emmanuel Macron urged in a joint letter on Monday.
The leaders of the EU’s two most powerful and populous countries want Brussels to be able to act more quickly and decisively in a trade confrontation — while making it harder for EU capitals to block action.
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