During a visit to Beijing, Germany’s Economy Minister Robert Habeck assured Chinese officials that the proposed European Union tariffs on Chinese goods are not meant as a punishment. This meeting marks the first by a senior European official since Brussels suggested imposing hefty duties on imports of Chinese-made electric vehicles to address what the EU views as excessive subsidies.
China had expressed concerns that escalating tensions with the EU over electric vehicles could potentially lead to a trade war. However, during their talks, Habeck emphasized that the proposed EU tariffs were aimed at creating a more level playing field with China. Zheng Shanjie, chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission responded by stating that China will take measures to protect its companies in light of the proposed tariffs.
The discussions between the German minister and Chinese officials highlight ongoing challenges in trade relations between the EU and China, as well as concerns about protectionism and subsidies. As both sides continue to negotiate, it remains unclear if these tariffs will ultimately be imposed or if they will lead to further tension between these two major trading partners.