Former Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo delivered stark warnings about European industrial competitiveness during a live appearance at the Council on Foreign Relations. She argued that European manufacturers are being systematically disadvantaged by regulatory burdens, energy costs, and competition from Chinese imports. Raimondo emphasized that the European Union's industrial base is losing ground to global competitors, particularly in sectors like automotive and manufacturing.

Her comments come amid growing concerns about Europe's economic trajectory, with Germany's manufacturing sector already showing signs of strain. The former commerce chief pointed to the Inflation Reduction Act in the United States as evidence that proactive industrial policy can revitalize domestic production. She suggested European policymakers need to adopt similar approaches to remain competitive in global markets.

Raimondo's critique highlights the mounting pressure on European leaders to address structural economic challenges. Her assessment carries particular weight given her experience overseeing U.S. industrial strategy during a period of significant economic transformation. The former secretary's warning serves as a wake-up call for European policymakers grappling with how to maintain industrial competitiveness in an increasingly challenging global environment.