As the European Council discusses economic security, competitiveness and the future of EU–China economic relations, Tyres Europe is publishing a statement calling for a stronger and more responsive EU trade policy.

Today, European manufacturing is facing growing pressure from structural overcapacity, state-induced market distortions and unfair trading practices affecting multiple industrial sectors. These distortions can cascade across value chains, weaken investment incentives and erode Europe’s industrial base.

Tyres Europe supports the recent Joint Industry Statement calling for a more ambitious application of EU trade defence policy, including stronger resources for investigations, more proactive use of existing instruments, and additional WTO-compatible tools to address systemic distortions.

Europe should remain open to trade, but openness must be matched with effective instruments that support fair competition and safeguard the industrial capabilities on which Europe’s prosperity, innovation and resilience depend.

Read the full statement below.