China’s commerce ministry confirmed Friday that representatives from the European Union will visit China to negotiate price commitments related to the recent electric vehicle (EV) tariff dispute. The ministry highlighted that, following extensive communication, the EU agreed to continue consultations in person, aiming to refine the terms of the proposed price commitment.
“China welcomes this and hopes that the next round of consultations will be conducted in accordance with the principles of pragmatism and balance, with a view to reaching a mutually acceptable solution,” the ministry stated.
The tariff dispute arose from the EU’s plan to implement new duties on Chinese-made EVs, citing concerns over subsidies and fair competition. Announced earlier in the week, the new EU tariffs, set to start Wednesday, will range from 7.8% for Tesla to 35.3% for Chinese manufacturer SAIC, in addition to the EU’s standard 10% import duty.
In response, sources report that Chinese officials have advised domestic automakers to slow any major expansion plans in Europe, including new agreements and potential production sites, while negotiations with the EU progress.
Source: Reuters
