De Wever urges EU integration to boost pharma competitiveness

Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has called for stronger European protection of the pharmaceutical industry against pressure from the United States and unfair competition from China, warning that even highly competitive companies are increasingly at risk.

Speaking on Thursday evening after the first day of the European Council in Brussels, De Wever pointed to the restructuring announced by pharmaceutical giant GSK, which could affect up to 1,217 jobs across three Belgian sites.

"The pharmaceutical industry is certainly a competitive sector in Belgium, so the issue isn't a lack of competitiveness," he said.

De Wever blamed US pressure on pharmaceutical companies to invest domestically, alongside restrictions on vaccine imports, for creating difficulties for European operations.

"Even if you are competitive, innovative, and top-notch, you ultimately end up losing," he warned, also accusing China of engaging in heavily subsidised unfair competition.

The prime minister argued that Europe must combine greater market integration with stronger protection against external economic pressures.

"Only through integration can we provide protection while avoiding the pitfalls of protectionism," he said, cautioning against "mindlessly copying the foolish policies of others."

De Wever also expressed cautious optimism about a shift in European attitudes towards China, particularly following Germany's change of position.

He welcomed a joint Franco-German initiative calling for tougher EU trade measures against Beijing, saying European leaders increasingly recognised the urgency of addressing growing trade deficits.

"Going to Beijing to have a cup of tea—while everyone remains unfailingly polite—changes absolutely nothing," he said.

"We need to be more assertive, better prepared for de-risking, and united in our response to the challenges emanating from Beijing."

While acknowledging that EU decision-making takes time, De Wever said the political momentum was shifting.

"I am a moderate optimist," he concluded.