Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun. Photo: Chinese Foreign Ministry

In response to European Commission President's criticism toward China at the G7 summit including so-called accusation against China on trade rules, industry subsidies, dominance in rare earths and so-called overcapacity, the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Wednesday that we have noted related reports, "Those remarks disregard facts, riddled with bias and double standards. China expresses strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition." 

China's industrial subsidy policies adhere to principles of openness, fairness, and compliance, and are implemented strictly in accordance with WTO rules, the spokesperson said, noting that China's industrial development is driven by continuous technological innovation, a comprehensive and resilient supply chain, full market competition, and a large, skilled labor force. "Our competitiveness is based on real strengths, not government subsidies," he said. 

China's new energy capacity plays a vital role in global efforts to combat climate change and support the transition to green energy, the spokesperson added.

The so-called overcapacity narrative is essentially due to related countries' concerns about their competitiveness and market share, using it as an excuse to implement protectionist measures; what is truly excessive is the anxiety, said Guo. 

The spokesperson also pointed out the inconsistency in the EU's approach. In recent years, the EU has repeatedly introduced industrial policies and offered massive subsidies to support European companies—some of which have explicitly prioritized purchasing European-made products. According to incomplete statistics, from 2021 to 2030, the EU plans to allocate over 1.44 trillion euros ($1.66 trillion) in subsidies, with over 300 billion euros already distributed as of 2024. The EU has also launched a series of trade policy tools. If the EU truly seeks economic growth and enhanced competitiveness, it must abandon double standards and embrace greater openness and cooperation, the spokesperson said.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic ties. Bilateral cooperation has delivered tangible benefits to both sides, Guo noted.

China remains committed to high-level opening-up and will continue to provide European businesses with broad market access and growth opportunities, willing to strengthen communication and coordination with the EU, properly handle trade differences, and strive for mutual benefit and common development, the spokesperson said. At the same time, we firmly oppose any attempt to undermine China's right to development or sacrifice Chinese interests in exchange for another party's gains, the spokesperson added.