法国上半年贸易逆差扩大 官员警告美国关税措施不良影响

Core Viewpoint - France's trade deficit reached 43 billion euros in the first half of the year, an increase of 4.4 billion euros compared to the second half of 2024, primarily due to higher import growth than export growth [1] Trade Data Summary - In the first half of the year, imports increased by 1.9% year-on-year, while exports grew by only 0.7%, leading to an expanded trade deficit [1] - In the second quarter alone, the trade deficit amounted to 22.9 billion euros, which is an increase of 2.8 billion euros from the first quarter [1] - The decline in exports of electricity, aerospace products, and ships, along with a record high in pharmaceutical imports, contributed to the trade deficit [1] Government Response - Laurent Saint-Martin, the French Minister responsible for foreign trade, indicated that the widening trade deficit serves as a warning signal for France, especially in light of a new trade agreement between the EU and the US [1] - He urged France and Europe to take action to enhance competitiveness and accelerate efforts to avoid falling behind [1] - Saint-Martin also highlighted the negative impacts of US tariff measures, which could lead to higher prices for American consumers and potentially slow global economic growth, posing a dual threat to France and Europe [1]