Context of the Speech Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič addressed the EU Ambassadors Conference 2025, focusing on the European Union's positioning in a shifting global economic landscape. Highlighting increased geopolitical uncertainty, he stressed that “business as usual is not an option” for preserving the EU's economic competitiveness and prosperity.
Concrete Proposals and Strategic Orientation Šefčovič outlined an assertive stance in trade relations, particularly with the U.S. and China. While reaffirming a commitment to cooperation with the U.S. — the EU’s largest bilateral trade partner with a EUR 1.6 trillion trade volume in 2023 — he emphasized readiness to respond firmly to unfair tariffs. Regarding China, the EU pursues a balanced approach combining openness with assertiveness on a level playing field, exemplified by recent measures targeting specific sectors like electric cars.
The Commissioner introduced a medium-term policy orientation that balances openness in trade with enhanced economic security. A key initiative is the development of "Clean Trade and Investment Partnerships," integrating trade, partnership, and economic security objectives to promote clean energy and technology sectors and secure raw material supplies. Šefčovič underlined ongoing trade negotiations with partners like Mercosur, Mexico, Malaysia, and others, signalling a push for expanded global engagement.
deeper risk understanding with fact-based assessments, strategic use of policy tools as will be detailed in the upcoming Economic Security Doctrine, and strengthened international cooperation — with allies and adversaries alike.
Impact on Stakeholders - EU Ambassadors and Delegations: The enhancement of structured cooperation and intelligence sharing is intended to leverage their unique insights and networks worldwide, increasing their role in economic security efforts. - EU Economic Actors (Trade and Industry sectors): The balance between openness and protective measures may introduce new compliance demands, particularly in sectors like clean tech and raw materials, potentially increasing operational costs. - Trade Partners: Expanded and modernized trade agreements offer mutual economic benefits but come with heightened expectations for fair practices and regulatory alignment. - EU Consumers: Overall economic security measures could stabilize supply chains and innovation in clean technologies, benefiting consumers with long-term availability and sustainable products, though potential tariffs or restrictions might affect prices.
This speech signals a nuanced shift towards increased coordination of EU foreign economic policy, blending openness with selective protectionism, and empowering EU representatives abroad to play a more active role in safeguarding economic interests.
← Atlas › News › International trade