China Condemns Türkiye’s Tariff Hike on Chinese Vehicles, Vows to Defend Interests
In a sharp response to Türkiye’s recent decision to impose additional duties on Chinese vehicles, China has expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced on Friday that it would take all necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.
Last week, Türkiye declared the implementation of an additional 40 percent import duty on fuel and hybrid passenger vehicles manufactured in China, set to take effect in early July. This move follows a similar tariff hike on electric vehicles from China, a decision that Beijing has repeatedly contested.
“The additional import duties target only passenger vehicles originating from China, resulting in discriminatory treatment compared to similar products from other World Trade Organization (WTO) members,” stated a spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce. “This action constitutes a serious violation of the most-favored-nation principle.”
The spokesperson emphasized that WTO rules are fundamental principles guiding member states in formulating trade policies. “Türkiye’s move is explicitly prohibited by WTO regulations,” they noted.
Concerns have been raised about the impact of Türkiye’s policies on both Chinese enterprises and local consumers. “Türkiye’s erratic policies not only harm the interests of cooperative enterprises but also undermine the confidence of Chinese businesses considering investment in Türkiye,” the spokesperson added.
China has urged Türkiye to immediately revoke the discriminatory tariff measures. “We call on Türkiye to work with us to promote the healthy development of Sino-Turkish economic and trade relations,” the statement concluded.
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China firmly opposes Turkish tariff hike on Chinese vehicles
cgtn.com