Chinese car companies push for import tariffs on EU vehicles amid trade tensions
Amid escalating trade tensions, Chinese car manufacturers have urged Beijing to impose import taxes of up to 25% on European Union (EU) rivals’ vehicles.
This demand came during a closed-door meeting organized by China’s Ministry of Commerce, attended by representatives from both Chinese and European car companies.
The proposed tariffs would specifically target EU cars with large petrol-driven engines, in response to the EU’s threats of imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle (EV) makers, potentially reaching 38% from July 4th.
Notable companies like Volkswagen, BMW, and Porsche were reportedly present at the meeting, although specific details of the discussions remain undisclosed.
Chinese carmakers are advocating for firm countermeasures against the EU, suggesting higher provisional tariffs within World Trade Organization rules.
This development follows previous reports suggesting a 25% tariff on EU cars with petrol engines larger than 2.5 litres, primarily affecting “luxury or ultra-luxury” vehicles.
The EU’s move to consider tariffs on Chinese EV manufacturers comes after the US raised tariffs on Chinese electric cars to 100% last month, sparking retaliatory measures from China and escalating trade tensions between major economies.
