The European Union decided on Tuesday to definitively impose import duties on electric cars made in China. In July, the EU already introduced provisional levies that could amount to more than 30 percent.
Recently, electric cars from China, such as BYD, SAIC and Lynk & Co, have become very popular in Europe. According to Brussels, Beijing gives its car manufacturers a lot of support, bringing the vehicles to the European market at very low prices. This would result in unfair competition for car manufacturers of European soil. China said Wednesday morning that it does not agree with the decision and has filed a complaint with the WTO Disputes Board. “China will take all necessary measures to forcefully protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies,” the Chinese Ministry of Economic Affairs reports.
At the same time, Beijing hopes that the EU wants to cooperate with China. Both parties therefore continue to negotiate with each other to reach a solution. Meanwhile, China is fighting with countermeasures, such as import duties on European agricultural products and spirits.