EU's 'Hard and Fast' Sanctions Could Deter China Over Taiwan Conflict, Says ECFR

The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) is advocating for stringent economic sanctions against China to prevent any conflict over Taiwan. Drawing lessons from sanctions on Russia, the policy brief recommends targeting China's export-based economy to deter aggressive moves by Beijing.

The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) is pushing for stringent and rapid sanctions against China in case of a conflict over Taiwan. A policy brief titled 'Hard, Fast, and Where it Hurts: Lessons from Ukraine-related Sanctions for a Taiwan Conflict Scenario,' as reported by the Taipei Times, outlines this approach.

Authored by senior policy fellow Agathe Demarais, the brief suggests that the EU utilize its economic weight to weaken China's intentions of invading Taiwan. The proposal draws parallels with Western sanctions on Russia post-Ukraine invasion, stressing the importance of economic statecraft in deterrence, according to Taipei Taiwan.

Highlighting China's reliance on exports for economic growth, the report suggests EU and its G7 partners impose sanctions targeting these sectors. Demarais pointed out that while financial sanctions may not deter China due to its economic independence, trade measures could be impactful. The EU must also consider potential Taiwan-related sanctions triggers and prepare for reduced trade with China.

(With inputs from agencies.)