Rome, (TDI): Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held discussions with Roberto Vavassori, president of the Italian Association of the Automotive Industry, in Italy.
The talks focused on the European Commission’s (EC) tariff on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) and the potential for enhanced cooperation between China and Italy in the EV sector, the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) announced on Sunday.
The meeting precedes Wang’s significant visit to Europe, scheduled to include talks with EC Executive Vice President and Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis on September 19.
The agenda will address the EC’s anti-subsidy investigation and the potential imposition of tariffs targeting Chinese EVs.
Importance of Wang’s Visit
Experts emphasize that Wang’s visit is pivotal in addressing the current dispute through dialogue and urge the EC to approach the discussions with genuine intent.
Sun Yanhong, a senior research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, highlighted the necessity for effective communication channels and mutual respect between China and the EU.
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Wang’s visit aims to navigate the ongoing conflict surrounding the EC’s recent measures against China’s EV industry.
With the EU intensifying its scrutiny of Chinese EVs, establishing a new cooperative framework is crucial amidst the evolving regulatory environment, Sun noted.
Criticism has been directed at the EU for what is perceived as a lack of sincerity in negotiations, with the imposition of punitive measures seen as unilateral.
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Although the EU has claimed openness to discussions, it has yet to demonstrate genuine commitment to resolving the issue through dialogue.
The upcoming talks between Wang and Dombrovskis represent the highest-level dialogue between China and the EU concerning the EV issue.
This meeting could pave the way for de-escalation of trade tensions and lead to an acceptable resolution for both parties.
Reports indicate that the EC is contemplating final tariffs of up to 35.3 percent on Chinese EVs, in addition to the standard 10 percent car import duty.
Approval from a majority of the EU’s 27 member states would be required, with potential implementation by the end of October.
