Beijing (TDI): The European Union’s proposed increase in tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) has sparked significant backlash over the weekend.
Chinese experts warned on Monday that while this move is unlikely to impede the impressive growth of China’s EV industry globally, it could ultimately stifle technological advancements within Europe.
According to a statement from the EU, the European Commission’s proposal to impose definitive countervailing duties on imports of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from China has received necessary backing from EU member states for the implementation of these tariffs.
Prominent European automakers, including Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, have criticized the planned tariffs as a misguided approach that sends a detrimental message to the European automotive sector.
Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume suggested that instead of punitive tariffs, the focus should be on providing investment credits, according to Global Times.
Also Read: BMW Presses Germany Against Chinese EVs Tariffs
“Rather than imposing punitive tariffs, the conversation should center on mutually recognizing investments,” Blume stated in a recent interview with German media outlet Bild am Sonntag.
The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU expressed profound disappointment and strong dissatisfaction with the EU’s protectionist trade measures.
The chamber has urged the EU to approach the finalization of these tariffs with caution, delay their implementation, and prioritize dialogue and consultation to resolve trade disputes.
EU’s Move Criticized as Trade Protectionism
Chinese experts characterized the EU’s actions as a clear example of trade protectionism, asserting that the use of political tools to interfere in economic activities will, in the long run, hinder the bloc’s industrial growth and suppress technological innovation.
Jian Junbo, a deputy director at the Center for China-Europe Relations at Fudan University, noted that these measures contradict global market principles and disrupt economic order, potentially harming both China and Europe while threatening global supply chain stability.
Also Read: China Condemns EU’s EV Tariffs
Jian further highlighted that China’s EV industry enjoys a significant competitive advantage on the world stage, and if Europe opts for tariff increases to isolate itself from this technological advancement, it risks missing critical growth opportunities.
A spokesperson for China’s Commerce Ministry emphasized that the Chinese EV industry operates under market principles and fosters robust competition.
The spokesperson added that the EU’s protectionist actions violate World Trade Organization rules and disrupt normal international trade, obstructing cooperation between China and Europe and delaying the EU’s green transition, which ultimately affects global climate change efforts.
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