Spain Deepens Economic Ties with China Amidst Trade Warnings

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez recently visited China, meeting with Xiaomi CEO and President Xi Jinping. His visits signify Spain’s ongoing economic relationship with China, highlighting a stark contrast to the general narrative in Europe regarding reducing dependence on Chinese imports. Data indicates that between 2014 and 2024, the European Union saw imports from China rise by 101.9%, while exports lagged behind at only 47% growth. This growing trade imbalance underscores the deepening ties rather than a cooling relationship.

Despite a significant trade deficit with China, where Spain bought almost seven times what it sold, the message from Spanish leadership remains unperturbed. With imports soaring to €50.25 billion and exports at just €7.47 billion in 2025, the Bank of Spain has flagged this dependence as a strategic risk. Spain's continued engagement with China, including four trips in four years by Sánchez, is indicative of a broader trend where, despite vocal commitments to reduce dependency, economic realities drive increased cooperation with China.