China objects to EU tariffs on electric vehicles, calls for negotiation-based solution

China is against the EU's tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) and is advocating for a resolution through dialogue and negotiation.

China objects to EU tariffs on electric vehicles, calls for negotiation-based solution
On Friday, China's Ministry of Commerce expressed strong opposition to the European Union's decision to impose anti-subsidy tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, following the EU's approval of the measure.

MOFCOM reinforced China's firm and consistent position, indicating that the country strongly disapproves of the EU's protectionist practices, which it views as unfair, non-compliant, and unreasonable. The ministry unequivocally rejects the imposition of anti-subsidy tariffs on Chinese EVs.

The EU's initiative to implement definitive tariffs on electric vehicles produced in China garnered the required backing from its member states, as noted in a statement from the EU Commission on Friday.

The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU expressed significant disappointment with the voting outcome and conveyed dissatisfaction regarding the EU's reliance on protectionist trade measures.

"In parallel, the Chamber observed that negotiation teams from China and the EU remain actively engaged in discussions, striving to find viable solutions," said CCCEU in a statement released on Friday. The Chamber urged the EU to approach the final measures with caution, postpone the implementation of the tariffs, and prioritize resolving trade tensions through consultation and dialogue.

With 12 member states abstaining, five opposing, and 10 supporting the measure, the EU is now authorized to impose substantial anti-subsidy duties on Chinese EV imports for a duration of five years. Nevertheless, the commission indicated that it will continue negotiations with China to seek alternative solutions that are compliant with WTO regulations, address the identified subsidies from its investigation, and are enforceable and monitorable.

MOFCOM underscored China's resolute opposition to the EU's final draft decision but acknowledged the EU's willingness to continue negotiations. Technical teams from both China and the EU are set to resume discussions on October 7.

China hopes that the EU will understand that imposing tariffs will not resolve the issue and urges the bloc to take tangible actions to fulfill its political commitments, returning to the appropriate path of resolving trade disputes through dialogue, MOFCOM's statement concluded. The ministry reiterated its commitment to taking all necessary measures to protect the interests of Chinese enterprises.

Emily Johnson contributed to this report for TROIB News