Macron Heads to China for State Visit, Aims to Boost Trade Ties and Press Beijing on Ukraine Ceasefire

French President Emmanuel Macron begins a three-day state visit to China on Wednesday, seeking to deepen economic cooperation while urging Beijing to help push Russia toward a ceasefire in Ukraine. The visit, which includes high-level political talks, business forums, and cultural stops, reflects France’s effort to balance partnership and rivalry with the world’s second-largest economy.

Trade, Investment, and Market Access High on Agenda

Macron’s office says the president will advocate for “fair and reciprocal” trade relations, emphasizing cooperation that fosters “sustainable, solid growth that benefits everyone.”

France aims to attract more Chinese investment and expand market access for French exports. Both sides are expected to sign multiple agreements across the energy, food, and aviation sectors during the visit.

China remains central to Europe’s trade landscape. The EU recorded a trade deficit of more than €300 billion with Beijing last year, and China accounts for 46% of France’s national trade deficit. Frictions have increased in recent years, especially after the EU’s probe into Chinese electric vehicle subsidies. Beijing retaliated with investigations into European brandy, pork, and dairy imports.

A recent Chinese exemption for most French cognac producers was welcomed by Macron as a “positive step.” France remains China’s leading supplier of wine and spirits.

Ukraine War to Feature Prominently in Talks

Diplomacy on Russia’s war in Ukraine is expected to dominate Macron’s discussions with President Xi Jinping. The French leader met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Paris on Monday to review potential terms for a ceasefire ahead of the China trip.

A senior French official said Paris hopes China will use its influence to “convince and influence Russia to move toward a ceasefire as quickly as possible” and ultimately support negotiations that provide “solid security guarantees for Ukraine.”

France also expects Beijing to avoid supplying Russia with any resources that could support its military campaign.

China has maintained that it supports “dialogue and negotiation” as the path to peace. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing has played a “constructive role” in encouraging a political resolution since the conflict began.

Strategic Diplomatic Context

Macron’s visit comes as France prepares to host the G7 summit in 2026, while China prepares to chair the 21-member APEC forum. As global competition intensifies, the EU continues to classify China simultaneously as a partner, competitor, and systemic rival.

Cultural and Regional Visits Planned

Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrive in Beijing on Wednesday evening and will tour the newly restored 18th-century Qianlong Garden in the Forbidden City.

On Thursday, Macron will meet Xi at the Great Hall of the People before joining a Franco-Chinese business forum. He will also meet Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress, and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

The French delegation will then travel to Chengdu, Sichuan province. On Friday, Macron and Xi will hold talks in Dujiangyan, home to one of the world’s oldest irrigation systems. The French president will also meet students at Sichuan University.

The visit will conclude with a symbolic stop: the research center housing Yuan Meng, the first giant panda born in France, named by Brigitte Macron. France recently returned a panda pair to China after their 13-year stay, during which they produced three cubs.

Macron’s latest outreach underscores France’s dual strategy: deepen economic ties with China while seeking Beijing’s leverage to help advance peace efforts in Ukraine.