France's export-driven economy in Brittany faces pressures due to tariff uncertainty

Western France's key export region, Brittany, faces growing production and supply chain challenges due to rising tariff uncertainties.

The Brittany region is known for its aviation, automotive, and pharmaceutical industries. It is rich in marine resources and has a long-standing agricultural tradition. With its export-oriented economy, Brittany has long played a vital role in global and regional trade.

Amid growing global economic uncertainties, local government in Brittany has been working to assess the impact on businesses and helping companies overcome challenges.

"International exchange and cooperation require balance. Currently, the global situation has become somewhat turbulent due to changes in U.S. tariff policies," said Loig Chesnais-Girard, Brittany President.

"The escalating tariff race is a cause for concern. As an export-oriented region, Brittany is particularly vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, which are becoming increasingly unstable. The current situation runs counter to what we have worked toward for many years -- building an environment of lower tariffs and smoother trade. We are working closely with companies across Brittany to respond at the regional level, assess the impact of these changes, and minimize the negative effects. The lack of transparency and the volatility of tariff policies are especially troubling," said Gael Guegan, Director and Regional Councilor for Economic Development of Brittany.

France's export-driven economy in Brittany faces pressures due to tariff uncertainty

France's export-driven economy in Brittany faces pressures due to tariff uncertainty

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Wednesday that Seoul firmly adheres to the one-China principle, in comments made ahead of his upcoming state visit to China.

The remarks were made in an interview with China Media Group (CMG). The visit is scheduled for Jan 4–7.

"The consensus reached between governments of the Republic of Korea and China when diplomatic relations were established continues to be the fundamental principle governing our relations, and its effectiveness remains steadfast. I want to clearly state that the ROK has always adhered to the one-China principle. Maintaining peace and stability in regional matters, including in Northeast Asia and concerning the Taiwan issue, holds significant importance to us," said Lee.

"The foundational relationship between the ROK and China was established on a very principled and fundamental basis from the beginning. It is clear that the ROK government has always adhered to this position and has never wavered from it. I believe that the sound development of ROK-China relations depends on both sides fully respecting each other's core interests and being mutually tolerant of each other's positions. In this context, we will, as always, uphold the one-China principle as the Taiwan issue is China's most fundamental concern," he said.

ROK president reiterates firm adherence to one-China principle