Stuttgart (TDI): Mercedes-Benz has voiced strong opposition to the European Union’s (EU) impending tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), calling for a delay in their implementation to safeguard the economic interests of both Europe and China.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz, expressed his concerns in a statement, emphasizing the need for open trade, according to German media reports.
“We need more free trade, not additional barriers,” he remarked, underscoring that the proposed tariffs would not boost the EU’s global competitiveness—critical for the bloc’s economic transformation and sustained growth.
As the deadline for the tariff imposition looms, Källenius urged the EU to adopt a balanced approach that fosters mutual benefit.
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He further stressed that negotiations between both parties would require time, urging an extension to avoid further complications and avert the risk of escalating tensions.
Both the German automotive sector and the federal government have aligned with Mercedes-Benz’s position, cautioning against protectionist measures.
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They warned that such tariffs could trigger retaliatory actions, potentially sparking a trade war, which would have detrimental effects on the EU’s own economic landscape.
