Automotive industry Beijing insists on agreement with Brussels in customs dispute
Despite the entry into force of the EU's additional tariffs on electric cars imported from China, Beijing still wants to seek a negotiated solution with Brussels. According to the Beijing Ministry of Commerce, the aim is to avoid an "escalation".
30.10.2024, 04:48
SDA
China has repeatedly pointed out that the anti-subsidy investigation has "many unfair and unlawful aspects". It will continue to take all necessary measures to resolutely defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies. At the same time, it has been noted that the EU has signaled its willingness to continue negotiations, the ministry added.
The EU additional duties came into force at midnight. The duties are to apply for five years. In the view of the EU Commission, the countervailing duties are necessary to secure the long-term future of the automotive industry in the EU. In an investigation, it came to the conclusion that Chinese manufacturers benefit from unfair subsidies that give them a considerable advantage on the European market.
Germany voted against tariffs
Prior to the EU Commission's decision, a sufficiently large majority of EU member states had voted in favor of the punitive tariffs at the beginning of the month. Germany voted against the measure out of concern about a new major trade conflict and possible retaliatory measures against German manufacturers.
Negotiations on a possible amicable solution to the trade dispute remained unsuccessful until the end. One option seen is for e-car dealers to enter into price commitments and thus avert the tariffs. According to the Commission, negotiations continued at a technical level even after the decision on countervailing duties.
