China’s Ministry of Commerce on Monday firmly refuted claims by a European Union (EU) official suggesting Beijing had been reluctant to engage in consultations over electric vehicle (EV) tariffs. The ministry stated that such remarks are “seriously inconsistent with the facts.”
The response came after Jorge Toledo Albiñana, the EU’s ambassador to China, reportedly indicated that China had not sought discussions on EV tariffs until recently, despite the EU’s attempts to engage for months.
According to a spokesperson from the ministry, China has consistently expressed strong opposition to the EU’s anti-subsidy probe into Chinese EVs since its initiation in October 2023. The spokesperson highlighted that over the past months, there have been numerous bilateral exchanges through face-to-face meetings and correspondence between top leaders and at ministerial levels.
“China has demonstrated its utmost sincerity,” the spokesperson affirmed. “We hope that the European side will make joint efforts, show its sincerity, advance the consultation process, and reach a mutually acceptable solution as soon as possible.”
The ministry emphasized China’s stance that trade protectionist measures are detrimental to the development of global green industries and international cooperation in the automotive sector. “All countries should work together to promote the green transformation of the economy,” the spokesperson urged.
Addressing concerns over trade practices, the spokesperson stated, “China resolutely opposes any unilateralist and protectionist measures that politicize or weaponize trade issues. In response to actions that abuse the rules and suppress China, we will take all necessary measures to safeguard our interests.”
Reference(s):
China refutes alleged reluctance to consult with EU on EV tariffs
cgtn.com
