The European Automotive Parts Suppliers Association (CLEPA) has called on the European Commission to prioritize industrial sovereignty and fair competition as Europe's automotive supply sector faces increasing external pressure, especially from China.
Automotive suppliers account for approximately 75 percent of total vehicle value and remain a cornerstone of Europe's industrial ecosystem, supporting innovation, research and development, and employment in many member states. However, the sector is increasingly subject to market distortions associated with foreign subsidies, price dumping, government-backed excess capacity and unilateral trade measures.
According to CLEPA, these dynamics put European producers at a structural disadvantage, despite the industry's ongoing commitment to open global trade.
EU's auto trade balance with China moves into deficit
The association highlighted the sharp deterioration in Europe's auto trade balance with China as a key indicator of growing competitive pressures.
Imports of automotive components from China reached €8.2 billion in 2025, plunging Europe's trade surplus of almost €7 billion recorded five years earlier has collapsed into a deficit of €0.7 billion. CLEPA warned that increasing dependence on cheaper imports could weaken Europe's industrial base and undermine long-term innovation capacity.
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