Asger Risom
rench President Emmanuel Macron has criticized global trade policies that he says weaponize tariffs to strong-arm developing economies, calling for fairer commerce and renewed support for the WTO.
Speaking at the opening of the UN’s Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, held in Seville, Macron condemned what he described as a return to “commercial warfare.”
Without naming countries, he warned that powerful nations are using tariffs as tools of coercion rather than economic rebalancing.
A Call for Equitable Global Trade
Macron labeled the revival of tariff-based trade disputes as an “aberration,” especially when such measures target nations “on the verge of taking off.”
He called for restoring “freedom and fairness” in global commerce, arguing that tariffs and trade barriers imposed by dominant economies serve as a form of blackmail.
As reported by 20minutos, the French leader emphasized that rebalancing trade is essential to fostering economic value chains in poorer and developing nations.
He linked these reforms to broader goals of combating inequality and advancing climate action.
Trade Conflicts Undermine Development
Macron warned that rising public debt, post-pandemic financial strain, and increased defense spending are all limiting global capacity for international solidarity.
He said trade conflicts further burden efforts to fund development programs.
Although he avoided direct mention of the U.S. or President Donald Trump, Macron’s comments come amid ongoing tensions over protectionist policies.
He stressed the need to rethink and reinforce the World Trade Organization’s role to align trade practices with global equity and climate commitments.
France will hold the G7 presidency in 2026, with Macron pledging that development financing will be a central focus, culminating in a summit in Evian.
He also praised Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez for hosting the Seville conference, highlighting Europe’s leadership on the issue.
