Vol. 1 (2026)

Cases and Insights

Economic Coercion as Foreign Policy Signalling: China’s Punitive Measures Against France, 2008–2009

Published 2026-05-19

  • Maria Papageorgiou
    • ,
  • Panagiotis Palaios

Maria Papageorgiou
Newcastle University (United Kingdom)

Panagiotis Palaios
American College of Greece (Greece)

Journal of Geoeconomics Cover

Abstract

This case study examines China’s use of informal economic coercion against France during the 2008 Tibet crisis. Drawing on official Chinese statements, trade data, and bilateral agreements, the case study traces events from March 2008 to late 2009 and highlights Beijing’s efforts to enforce political red lines while presenting its actions as a defensive response. Measures included suspending diplomatic engagements, consumer boycotts targeting French companies, and stalled commercial deals. Framed in terms of national sovereignty, these measures illustrate how China leverages trade, market access, and nationalist sentiment to punish target states and deter similar actions by others.

Keywords

Economic coercion, economic statecraft, geoeconomics,, consumer boycotts, diplomatic retaliation, Tibet, Dalai Lama, China, France

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Author Biography

Maria Papageorgiou

Maria Papageorgiou is a Leverhulme Early Career Fellow at Newcastle University, United Kingdom.

Panagiotis Palaios

Panagiotis Palaios is an Assistant Professor of Economics and Economic Program Coordinator at Deree – The American College of Greece. 

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