European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde has issued a stark warning about escalating tariff disputes, stating they are creating "uncertainty for the global economy" during an exclusive interview with CGTN's Guan Xin. The remarks come as policymakers worldwide grapple with trade tensions that could reshape supply chains and investment patterns.
Lagarde emphasized that tariff threats have already delayed critical investment decisions and development projects across multiple sectors. "When businesses can't predict the rules of international trade, they press pause," she explained, noting this hesitation directly impacts employment opportunities and technological advancement.
The ECB leader highlighted particular concerns for emerging Asian markets, where export-driven economies remain vulnerable to protectionist measures. While not referencing specific nations, her comments carry significance for manufacturing hubs in Southeast Asia and technology suppliers in East Asia.
Global growth forecasts face downward revisions amid these tensions, Lagarde revealed, urging nations to prioritize dialogue over confrontation. "Sustainable economic progress requires stable frameworks for international cooperation," she stated, advocating for multilateral solutions through platforms like the G20 and WTO.
Analysts suggest these warnings hold special relevance for European-Asian trade relations, particularly in green technology and semiconductor sectors where cross-continental partnerships dominate.
