Italy backs EU tariffs on Chinese EVs: Report

Italy has expressed its support for the European Commission's proposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle (EV) imports, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani confirmed in a recent interview to Reuters. Speaking to Corriere della Sera ahead of his meeting with China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Rome, Tajani told Reuters, "We support the duties that the EU Commission proposes, to protect the competitiveness of our companies."

Wang Wentao is currently on a European tour to address the EU's anti-subsidy investigation into China-made EVs, with a vote on potential tariffs looming, Reuters reported. During his talks with Tajani on Monday, the Italian foreign ministry’s statement did not mention EVs directly, focusing instead on issues such as intellectual property, agri-food trade, and investment, Reuters reported. They also touched on international security, including the war in Ukraine, tensions in Gaza, and Red Sea shipping safety, with Italy urging Beijing to help address arms supplies to Russia and maritime threats in the region, the news wire reported. 

Wang is scheduled to meet with European Commission Executive Vice President and Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis on September 19 to further discuss the EV tariffs, Reuters reported. 

Italy initially supported the tariffs in a non-binding vote by EU members in July. However, Industry Minister Adolfo Urso recently told Reuters he hopes for a negotiated solution. Italy, a significant player in the automotive industry and home to brands like Fiat (part of the Stellantis group), has also been in talks with Chinese automakers such as Dongfeng and Chery Auto about opening factories in Italy to boost production, Reuters reported. 

Despite backing the EU's tariff proposal, Tajani emphasized that this stance does not jeopardize Italy's "good relations" with China. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited China in July to strengthen cooperation following Italy's decision to exit the Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. Additionally, President Sergio Mattarella is scheduled to visit China later this year, with Tajani set to be part of the delegation, Reuters reported. 

The European Commission is reportedly considering final tariffs of up to 35.3% on Chinese-built EVs, in addition to the EU's standard 10% car import duty, Reuters reported.