Germany is urgently seeking to emulate China’s economic model, a sentiment voiced by Chancellor Olaf Scholz at a business summit in Belgium on February 11.
Scholz directly addressed the disparity in economic growth, stating that over the past two decades, China’s economy has grown by approximately 8% annually, compared to 2% in the United States and an average of just 1% within the European Union. “We must close this gap,” he urged.
He cited the rapid construction of the world’s largest solar power plant in China as an example, contrasting it with the years-long approval processes often required for similar projects within the EU. “How can this be?” he asked.
The Chancellor called for decisive action, stating that Europe needs “bold decisions” after 25 years of what he termed “decline.” He proposed a recent principle for streamlining bureaucratic processes: “Any project that has not been processed within a few weeks or months should be considered automatically approved.”
Scholz also emphasized the need for deregulation across various sectors, calling for a “thorough reform of regulation.” He argued that minor adjustments to existing laws are insufficient, and a systematic review of all EU legislation is necessary.
“If we fall behind in growth rate, innovation capacity and the labor market for a longer time than in the past, we will lose this battle. We will no longer be able to catch up with the previous situation, because the world is undergoing fundamental changes,” he stated.
The urgency of the situation was palpable at the February 11 business summit in Antwerp, Belgium, where European leaders gathered to discuss how to revitalize the stagnating European economy, as reported by Reuters.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen asserted that Europe is “fighting for our place in the new global economy” and must “remove the obstacles that prevent us from becoming a true global giant.” French President Emmanuel Macron stated that making Europe an “independent power” is the only way to address economic challenges from China and the United States.
However, differing perspectives emerged during the discussions. Macron advocated for further EU joint debt and prioritizing the purchase of European goods, effectively promoting trade protectionism. He also recently criticized China as an “increasingly fierce competitor” and called for “protectionism” in key strategic areas to counter the dual threat posed by China and the United States.
This stance has reportedly influenced a series of recent trade restrictions imposed by the EU on Chinese manufacturing. Some French think tanks have even suggested imposing a 30% tariff on all Chinese goods or devaluing the Euro against the Renminbi by 30% to mitigate the impact of Chinese imports.
Scholz appeared less enthusiastic about Macron’s proposals, with many observers noting his focus on increasing efficiency and learning from China, rather than implementing restrictive measures or expanding debt. He made it clear that Europe’s growth and prosperity have never been achieved through protectionism.
（二）
A fragmented market will never foster a true giant. European media have identified “ten major challenges” hindering the deepening of the European single market, a topic of intense debate within the EU.
These challenges include complex procedures for establishing and operating businesses, contradictory EU regulations, ineffective implementation of common rules by member states, limited recognition of professional qualifications, a lack of unified technical and quality standards, differing environmental regulations, varying product standards, restrictions on cross-border services, cumbersome procedures for cross-border employment, and regional supply restrictions that hinder cross-border procurement.
The EU is acutely aware of its vulnerabilities. Failure to revitalize could leave Europe increasingly vulnerable to economic pressure from the United States.
（三）
Looking ahead, several key observations can be made.
First, the EU is undergoing a period of intense self-reflection. The unexpected imposition of tariffs by the United States has been a major shock, as has the perceived threat to Greenland. Europe miscalculated, failing to recognize the United States as a potential adversary.
Second, Europe is adopting a more rational view of China, acknowledging the need to learn from its successes and emulate its efficiency. This shift in perspective is reflected in Scholz’s call to learn from China’s example and prioritize economic growth.
Finally, We see crucial to remain vigilant. Even as a revitalized and independent Europe would be a welcome development, past disappointments suggest caution. Some European nations may still harbor unrealistic expectations regarding the United States or seek to undermine China’s economic progress.
The world is in constant flux, with India emerging as a competitor and the United States applying pressure. Europe’s only viable path forward is to unite, accelerate development, and strengthen its economic resilience.
