The Taoiseach has suggested that, instead of complaining about the impact of Chinese imports, the European Union should take steps to make its own economy more competitive. “There are questions in terms of overcapacity in manufacturing in China, and some of that finding its way into the European market. But fundamentally, Europe has to get competitive itself, and Europe has to set key objectives,” he said. I think China has very strong indigenous research capacities, strengths, and abilities, and therefore, genuine partnership is important,” he said. [ Ireland will vote against Mercosur trade deal, Taoiseach and Tánaiste confirmOpens in new window ]“The US is trading with China, notwithstanding all the noise.

Source: The Irish Times January 09, 2026 16:00 UTC