China and the European Union (EU) have not yet reached a mutually acceptable solution regarding the EU's anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), according to China's Ministry of Commerce. Despite significant progress in certain areas, major differences remain after eight rounds of intensive negotiations since September 20 in Brussels.
The Ministry's spokesperson revealed on Saturday that China has formally invited the EU to dispatch a technical team for face-to-face consultations to advance the next phase of discussions. \"China's attitude and sincerity in seeking a solution through dialogue and consultation have not changed,\" the spokesperson emphasized.
China is urging the EU to arrange the visit promptly and approach the consultations with a constructive attitude to reach an appropriate solution at an early date. The spokesperson noted that while China has fully considered the demands and opinions of both Chinese and European industries, and has repeatedly proposed pragmatic and constructive solutions, it is regrettable that the EU has not actively responded to the core concerns of both industries.
On September 19, China's Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao and European Commission Executive Vice President and Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis held talks, agreeing to push forward negotiations on a price commitment agreement and to fully commit to achieving a mutually acceptable solution through dialogue and consultations.
However, reports of the EU holding separate price commitment talks with certain companies have raised concerns. The Ministry's spokesperson warned that such actions could \"undermine the foundation of the negotiations and mutual trust.\" Chinese enterprises, including EU-invested companies in China, have authorized the China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Machinery and Electronic Products to propose a price commitment plan representing the industry's overall position. \"This is the basis of the China-EU negotiations,\" the spokesperson stated.
The ongoing dispute centers on the EU's investigation into alleged subsidies received by Chinese EV manufacturers, which the EU claims could be harming its own automotive industry. China maintains that its EV industry has grown through fair competition and innovation, and is seeking a resolution that reflects the interests of both parties.
The situation remains closely watched by global investors, industry stakeholders, and policymakers, as the outcome could have significant implications for international trade relations and the rapidly growing EV market. Both China and the EU have expressed a desire to continue dialogue in hopes of finding a mutually beneficial resolution.
Reference(s):
China, EU yet to reach acceptable solution on EV anti-subsidy case
cgtn.com
