EU considers pre-conditions for Chinese investments, including tech transfers

The European Union (EU) is considering implementing pre-conditions for Chinese companies seeking to invest in Europe, including requirements for technology and know-how transfers. This announcement was made on Tuesday by EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic and Denmark"s Foreign Minister.

The EU has stated that China has gained significantly from large-scale technology transfers facilitated by European businesses operating within its borders. These transfers often occur as a condition for market access or through regulations that require joint ventures with Chinese firms.

In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian expressed opposition to forced technology transfers and criticized what he described as protectionist and discriminatory practices that are justified under the guise of enhancing competitiveness.

Commissioner Sefcovic emphasized that while the EU welcomes foreign investment, it expects these investments to be substantial and to create new jobs within the bloc. He noted that such investments should also involve the transfer of technology and intellectual property rights, similar to the practices European companies have followed when investing in China.

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