China confirmed that its ongoing negotiations with the European Union over a price commitment mechanism for Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) have entered the final stage, though both sides must continue work to finalize a resolution, according to a statement released Saturday by the Ministry of Commerce.
The update follows a meeting held last week in Paris between Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic. The two officials held detailed discussions on the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese EVs, which has been a source of friction since Brussels imposed higher tariffs in 2023.
The Chinese Commerce Ministry described the talks as a positive step forward toward a “proper resolution,” noting that the consultations have reached an advanced stage. Despite this progress, further legal and technical efforts are required from both sides before an agreement can be reached.
China said it will evaluate a new proposal from the EU that explores alternative technical approaches to resolving the dispute. Working teams from both sides have been instructed to intensify negotiations to find a mutually acceptable solution that aligns with domestic regulations and World Trade Organization (WTO) principles.
The trade standoff comes as both economies attempt to navigate shifting demand for EVs and growing geopolitical tensions, with the European market seen as critical to China’s automotive export strategy.
