Job losses in European manufacturing could accelerate unless the European Union takes action to counter the rising influence of Chinese manufacturers, according to Eurometal, a major trade group representing the metal industry. The group predicts that 300,000 manufacturing jobs could be lost in the EU by the end of 2026, driven by fierce competition from China, which currently enjoys a daily trade surplus of €1 billion with the bloc. To highlight its concerns, Eurometal plans to stage a protest near the European Commission headquarters, using 10 symbolic coffins marked with phrases like “EU competitiveness” and “European factories” to represent the potential loss of jobs and industry. Alexander Julius, president of Eurometal, explained that China’s five-year economic plan aims to move beyond being a supplier of raw materials and instead become a central player in global supply chains. This shift, he said, allows China to control the full value chain of production, from raw materials to finished goods. Julius urged the European Commission to fully recognize the impact of Chinese exports, particularly in areas like metals and chemicals, which are used in nearly all manufacturing processes. He stressed that without action, European industries may struggle to compete. The EU has already taken steps to address trade imbalances, including imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in 2024 and raising steel import tariffs earlier this year. Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič has raised concerns about the EU’s annual trade deficit of €360 billion with China, calling it “not sustainable.” To prevent a trade war, both sides have agreed to three months of talks, scheduled to conclude in October. However, the challenge remains significant, as European manufacturers face rising costs from tariffs, carbon taxes, and energy expenses, while Chinese competitors benefit from lower production costs and an undervalued currency. Julius warned that the loss of manufacturing jobs in Europe would lead to a broader loss of investment, expertise, and long-term economic stability. A European Commission analysis earlier this year estimated that over a million jobs could be at risk due to high energy costs and global competition. This trend is already visible in Germany, where major companies like Volkswagen have announced significant job cuts. Meanwhile, Chinese officials have accused the EU of protectionism and warned of potential countermeasures if European trade policies continue to target Chinese companies. Despite these tensions, both sides have agreed to a temporary truce, giving them time to find a resolution.