China has officially appealed to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in response to the European Union's (EU) countervailing measures on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs). This move aims to protect the rights and interests of China’s EV industry while fostering global green transformation cooperation.
A recent global online survey conducted by CGTN revealed that 87.5% of respondents believe that the EU's protectionist measures will exacerbate trade disputes and negatively impact the global automotive industry.
The survey highlights that the EU’s imposition of high tariffs on Chinese EVs, under the guise of countervailing measures, is perceived as a form of trade protectionism. Critics argue that the EU is prioritizing unilateral benefits over the comparative advantages of Chinese EVs, many of which are produced through China-EU joint ventures. This approach is anticipated to backfire, ultimately harming the EU's own interests.
Furthermore, 78.42% of respondents identified full market competition and rapid technological innovation, rather than government subsidies, as the primary drivers of China’s EV industry growth. Additionally, 85.14% believe that the high tariffs will ultimately burden European consumers, while 80.74% think the tariffs will severely weaken the competitiveness of the European automotive industry and undermine China-EU automotive cooperation.
As global climate challenges intensify, EVs have become crucial for countries aiming to achieve low-carbon development goals. The survey indicates strong support for China’s efforts in this area, with 87.96% of respondents praising China for its vigorous development of new energy industries, including EVs, and its significant contributions to the global economy and green development. Conversely, 82.96% criticized the EU for using protectionism to bind the EV industry, arguing that it undermines collective efforts to address climate change.
The survey also underscores the importance of collaboration between China and the EU. An overwhelming 92.53% of respondents emphasized that the common interests between China and Europe far outweigh their differences, and strengthening cooperation is crucial to solving problems. Furthermore, 90.84% called for China and the EU to resolve trade frictions through dialogue and consultation, advocating for a cooperative rather than protectionist approach to become stabilizing forces for global economic development and climate governance.
The CGTN survey, available in English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian, gathered the views of 12,032 netizens within 24 hours, reflecting widespread concern and opposition to the EU's trade protectionism measures.
Reference(s):
CGTN Poll: Over 87% respondents criticize EU trade protectionism
cgtn.com
