BEIJING: Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has described China’s trade imbalance with the European Union as “unsustainable”, urging Beijing to open its markets to European goods as he began a three-day visit aimed at deepening economic ties.
Speaking during a visit to Tsinghua University in Beijing on Monday, Sanchez warned that the widening deficit risks long-term strain on European economies. He called on China to take steps to ensure more balanced trade, stressing that greater access for European exports was essential.
“We need China to open up so that Europe does not have to close itself off,” Sanchez said, highlighting concerns over what he characterised as a growing and uneven trade relationship.
The Spanish leader pointed to the scale of the imbalance, noting that the EU’s trade deficit with China increased significantly last year. Spain alone recorded a deficit of €42.3 billion with China, accounting for nearly three-quarters of its overall trade gap.
Sanchez’s visit comes at a time of shifting geopolitical dynamics, with several Western countries seeking closer engagement with Beijing amid uncertainty in relations with the United States.
President Donald Trump’s tariff policies and unpredictable foreign policy stance have prompted renewed outreach to China from European leaders.
Madrid is positioning itself as a potential bridge between Beijing and Brussels. Sanchez, making his fourth visit to China in as many years, aims to strengthen Spain’s role as a key economic partner and gateway for Chinese investment into Europe and beyond.
A central objective of the trip is to secure improved market access for Spanish agricultural and industrial exports, alongside exploring joint ventures in the technology sector.
Spain is also seeking to attract Chinese investment into its growing economy and gain access to critical raw materials essential for its industries.
During the visit, Sanchez is expected to meet President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, while also engaging with leading Chinese firms, including a visit to technology giant Xiaomi.
Analysts say Spain’s relatively pragmatic approach towards China has made it an attractive partner. Its strong economic growth and strategic geographic position – linking Europe, Latin America and North Africa -further enhance its appeal as an investment hub.
Agriculture remains a key area of opportunity, with China’s demand for high-quality food imports offering potential for Spanish producers, according to AFP.
The visit builds on previous cooperation, including agreements to expand access for Spanish products such as pork and fruit. Spanish exports to China have already shown steady growth, reflecting strengthening bilateral ties.
However, Sanchez’s remarks underline a clear message: while Spain is keen to deepen relations, it expects a more balanced and sustainable economic partnership in return.
