China’s Response to EU Tariffs on Chinese Electric Vehicles

China’s Commerce Ministry has strongly objected to the European Union’s recent decision to increase tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. The EU plans to implement provisional tariffs ranging from 17.4% to 38.1% starting July 4, citing concerns over alleged subsidies benefiting Chinese automakers.

The Ministry’s spokesman, He Yadong, criticized the EU for what he deemed as unreasonable demands during the investigation, stating that the requirements surpassed standard anti-subsidy investigation norms. He mentioned that Chinese companies cooperated extensively, providing detailed information on manufacturing, technology, and product formulas. Despite this cooperation, the EU accused them of non-compliance and imposed punitive tariffs.

While China refrained from announcing immediate retaliatory measures, it reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the interests of Chinese enterprises. In response to the EU’s tariffs on electric vehicles, Beijing initiated an anti-dumping probe into European pork exports earlier this week.

The EU’s decision has sparked tension between the two economic powerhouses as they navigate trade relations in the global market.