Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is embarking on a visit to China, his second in 18 months, amidst a brewing trade dispute over electric vehicles. His trip will include meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and other top officials, as well as participation in business forums aimed at strengthening economic ties between Spain and China.
Sánchez’s visit comes at a delicate time, following Spain’s support for a 36.7% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles imposed by the European Union. This action triggered a response from the Chinese government, who launched an investigation into EU pork imports. This retaliation is particularly impactful for Spain, as it was the largest EU exporter of pork to China in 2020, contributing nearly half of the total 2.5 billion euros in EU pork exports to China in 2022.
Despite the tension, Spain has welcomed the plans of Chinese carmaker Chery to establish a manufacturing plant for electric vehicles in Barcelona. This investment highlights the ongoing economic engagement between the two countries, even as they navigate the ongoing trade dispute.
During his visit, Sánchez will attend a business forum in Beijing for Spanish and Chinese companies before traveling to Shanghai. In Shanghai, he will participate in more business events and attend the inauguration of a Cervantes Institute, which promotes Spanish language and culture.
Sánchez’s visit underscores the complex relationship between Spain and China, a relationship characterized by both economic cooperation and trade disputes. It remains to be seen how these tensions will play out in the long term, but Sánchez’s trip is a clear signal of Spain’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening ties with China despite the ongoing trade disagreements.
