The European Union's recent decision to impose additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) has drawn sharp criticism from Chinese officials, highlighting concerns over its impact on global green initiatives and the automotive industry.
Li Chao, a spokesperson for the National Development and Reform Commission, voiced strong opposition during a press conference on Tuesday. He argued that the EU's move undermines its own efforts towards a green and low-carbon transformation and hampers the global response to climate change.
The European Commission announced on June 12 its plan to levy provisional tariffs on EVs imported from China following an anti-subsidy investigation. These new duties range from 17.4% to 38.1%, adding to the standard 10% vehicle duty already in place.
Li criticized the EU's actions as disregarding established facts and regulations, labeling the investigation as weaponized and politicized. He emphasized that such protectionist measures not only threaten fair competition but also jeopardize the long-term healthy development of both Chinese and EU automotive companies.
The proposed tariffs, if implemented, could disrupt and distort global automotive supply chains, affecting industries within the EU and beyond. Li warned that these measures would harm EU consumers by increasing vehicle costs and exacerbate the EU's reliance on foreign fossil fuels, thereby hindering its green transformation efforts.
China remains committed to supporting auto companies worldwide in fair competition and maintaining the stability of the global automotive industry. Li expressed hope that the EU would reconsider its approach, adhere to basic economic laws, respect World Trade Organization rules, and address the concerns raised by its own industry stakeholders.
Reference(s):
Official: EU harming itself with tariff plan targeting Chinese EVs
cgtn.com
