EU expert Rühlig says von der Leyen wanted earlier tougher China policy; Germany's manufacturing concerns drive shift (iss.europa.eu)

• Rühlig: Von der Leyen saw economy-security nexus early
• Germany's manufacturing sector pressured by Chinese imports
• Berlin shifts towards tougher EU stance on China

"Tim Rühlig, a research fellow at the EUISS, stated in a Politico interview that Commission President von der Leyen had recognized the economy-security nexus in EU-China relations earlier than other national politicians. Germany's growing concern about Chinese imports impacting its manufacturing sector is softening its traditionally cautious approach, increasing support for a tougher stance on China. Rühlig highlighted Germany's central role."