China is pressing the European Union to abandon its proposed preliminary tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle (EV) imports before the July 4 deadline, as reported by the state-run Global Times. This appeal follows an agreement between both sides to explore a potential compromise.
The EU plans to impose provisional duties as high as 38.1% on Chinese-made EVs, citing concerns over what it considers to be excessive subsidies. The European Commission is set to hold technical discussions with Chinese officials in Brussels this week. A spokesperson for the Commission emphasized that any resolution must effectively address the alleged unfair subsidization.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz underscored the need for significant progress from China in the negotiations. Meanwhile, Beijing remains committed to preventing a tariff war, reflecting on the negative impact of previous U.S. tariffs, but has stated it will take measures to protect its industries if necessary.
As the EU’s final decision on the tariffs looms, set for November 2, trade experts believe a resolution before July 4 is unlikely unless China addresses all issues highlighted by the European Commission. The Chinese commerce ministry has yet to comment on the situation.
