China’s Commerce Minister, Wang Wentao, has expressed concerns that the European Union's (EU) decision to impose tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) will "seriously interfere" with trade and investment cooperation, negatively affecting both China and Germany, Reuters reported.
In discussions on Tuesday with German Vice Chancellor and Economic Minister Robert Habeck, Wang emphasized the importance of finding a solution that aligns with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules to prevent the escalation of economic and trade tensions between China and the EU, according to a statement released by China's Ministry of Commerce as reported by news wire.
The European Commission is on the verge of implementing final tariffs of up to 35.3% on EVs manufactured in China, in addition to the EU’s standard 10% car import duty. Wang’s visit to Europe is part of efforts to address the EU's anti-subsidy case against Chinese-made EVs ahead of a vote on further tariffs. He expressed hope that Germany would prioritize its own economic interests and encourage the European Commission and China to work toward a resolution, the Reuters reported.
Habeck stated that Germany supports free trade, welcomes investment from Chinese auto and parts manufacturers in Europe, and will encourage the European Commission to find a suitable solution with China to avoid trade conflicts, as outlined in the ministry’s statement, the news wire stated.