China has taken the first step in a trade dispute with Turkey at the World Trade Organization (WTO) over Ankara’s tariffs on electric vehicle (EV) imports, according to a statement from China’s diplomatic mission on Tuesday. This move comes as China faces increasing global pressure over its rising EV exports, which many nations allege are heavily subsidized by Beijing to bolster its slowing economy.
“The discriminatory measure taken by Turkiye is against WTO rules and is protectionist in nature. We urge Turkiye to follow WTO rules and immediately correct its measures,” the statement read, using the Turkish spelling of the country. The Turkish government has yet to comment on the matter.
In June, Turkey imposed an additional 40% tariff on vehicle imports from China. The country also introduced strict conditions on the import of plug-in hybrid vehicles, including those from China. Despite these protective measures, Turkey has been working to strengthen ties with Chinese automakers, striking a deal with BYD earlier this year and entering the final stages of investment talks with Chery.
China’s complaint follows a broader trend of trade tensions surrounding its EV exports. The European Union recently announced its intention to impose significant tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, and in March, China opened a WTO dispute against U.S. subsidies aimed at protecting the American EV industry.
China’s “request for consultations” at the WTO is the first formal step in addressing the trade dispute. Often, such conflicts are resolved at this early stage, but further escalation is possible if a resolution is not reached.
