The European Union's recent decision to impose definitive tariffs of up to 45 percent on electric vehicle (EV) imports from China has ignited strong reactions from both Chinese and European stakeholders. The move, announced following a vote on Friday, has raised serious concerns about its potential impact on the competitiveness of the European automotive industry.
Chinese authorities have expressed firm opposition to the tariffs. A spokesperson from the Ministry of Commerce stated on Friday, \"China firmly opposes the unfair, illegal, and unreasonable protectionist practices of the EU, and resolutely opposes the EU's additional countervailing duty on Chinese electric vehicles.\" The spokesperson emphasized that the EU's actions would not resolve existing issues but instead undermine the confidence of Chinese enterprises, potentially deterring them from cooperation and investment in Europe.
On Saturday, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade echoed these sentiments. The organization reiterated its firm opposition to the tariffs and expressed support for resolving differences through dialogue and consultation. It emphasized the importance of reaching a solution that serves the common interests of both China and the EU, promoting the healthy and stable development of bilateral economic and trade relations.
The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU also weighed in, describing the EU's anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese EVs as a \"politically motivated and unjustified protectionist measure\" in a statement issued on Friday. The chamber warned that such actions ultimately undermine the competitiveness of the European market and the vitality of the global electric vehicle supply chain.
Both Chinese and European parties are calling for a negotiated solution to address the concerns raised by the tariffs. As the EV industry continues to grow and evolve, cooperation between key global players remains essential for fostering innovation and ensuring a vibrant market that benefits consumers worldwide.
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EU decision to press ahead with tariffs on Chinese EVs sparks outcry
cgtn.com
