The European Union (EU) has taken a significant step by announcing temporary anti-subsidy duties of up to 38.1% on imported electric vehicles (EVs) from China. Leading Chinese EV manufacturers such as BYD, Geely, and SAIC are set to face tariffs of 17.4%, 20%, and 38.1% respectively. Additionally, companies cooperating with the investigation will incur a 21% tariff, while non-cooperators will face the highest rate of 38.1%. These tariffs are expected to be implemented by July.
In response, the spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce expressed strong dissatisfaction and concern over the EU’s preliminary ruling. The spokesperson criticized the EU's decision for disregarding facts and World Trade Organization (WTO) rules, despite repeated objections from China and calls from several EU member states and industry sectors to reconsider these measures.
China argues that the EU's ruling lacks both factual and legal basis, accusing the EU Commission of overlooking the competitive advantages of Chinese EVs that arise from open competition. Furthermore, China claims that the EU has fabricated and exaggerated subsidy issues, misused the \"available facts\" rule, and imposed excessively high subsidy rates.
The Ministry of Commerce labeled the EU's actions as \"protectionist behavior\" and \"unfair trade practices,\" asserting that these measures undermine the legitimate rights and interests of China's EV industry. The tariffs are also said to disrupt the global automotive and supply chains, including those within the EU.
Moreover, the spokesperson emphasized that the EU's actions contradict the spirit of cooperation agreed upon by Chinese and EU leaders. By politicizing trade issues, the EU's measures are negatively impacting bilateral trade cooperation and consumer interests within the EU. Additionally, these tariffs could hinder the EU’s green transformation and its global efforts to combat climate change.
China's Ministry of Commerce has urged the EU to immediately correct its approach and adhere to the recent consensus reached through dialogue and consultation by the leaders of China, France, and the EU. The Chinese side remains committed to closely monitoring the EU's next steps and is prepared to take all necessary measures to defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.
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Chinese Ministry of Commerce condemns EU's anti-subsidy ruling on EVs
cgtn.com
