The European Union and China have agreed to begin consultations regarding the proposed tariffs on Chinese electric car imports. The discussions will be led by EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis and Chinese Trade Minister Wang Wentao, as announced by the Ministry of Trade in Beijing. Wang will participate in a video conference for the talks.
German Minister of Economic Affairs, Robert Habeck, is currently in China and has expressed the EU’s readiness to engage in dialogue with China on the tariffs. He emphasized during a visit to Shanghai that the tariffs are not punitive but are aimed at preventing competition distortions. Habeck also met with the Chairman of the State Development and Reform Commission in Beijing to discuss the issue.
The additional tariffs, which could be as high as 38.1 percent, are set to be implemented from July 4. The EU Commission will review the situation until November 2, after which final rates will be determined for a period of five years. This gives both China and the EU an opportunity to engage in discussions and reach a mutually beneficial outcome.
It is important for both parties to collaborate and find a solution that avoids any negative impacts on the electric car industry while promoting fair competition. These consultations could help prevent any potential trade disputes and ensure a positive working relationship between China and the European Union moving forward.