The Chinese Chamber of Commerce to the EU (CCCEU) voiced strong opposition to the European Commission’s proposed import duties of up to 36% on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), calling the move unfair and likely to escalate trade tensions between China and the European Union.
In a statement released earlier today, the CCCEU expressed “strong dissatisfaction” with the European Commission’s “protectionist approach,” accusing the bloc of undermining free trade principles. According to the group, such measures would ultimately damage the European electric vehicle industry’s competitiveness by stifling global collaboration.
“The European Commission’s unjustifiable use of trade tools to obstruct free competition in the electric vehicle market will weaken the resilience of the European EV sector,” the CCCEU stated. They warned that the protectionist stance could lead to strained relations between the EU and China, casting a shadow over future cooperation on green initiatives and global development.
This reaction comes after Brussels imposed provisional tariffs of up to 38% on Chinese electric vehicles in July. The punitive measures were in response to an anti-subsidy investigation that found Chinese EVs were being unfairly subsidised, giving them an advantage over European manufacturers. These tariffs come in addition to existing duties of 10%, putting significant pressure on Chinese automakers.
The European Commission today released a draft plan to formalise these tariffs, though at slightly revised rates. The proposal will be open for feedback from stakeholders until the end of August, with a final decision expected by October after a review by EU member states.
A spokesperson for the European Commission stressed that Brussels remained open to resolving the issue diplomatically. “We are still willing to find a resolution without imposing tariffs, but China must present a viable alternative solution,” the official said.
As both sides navigate this trade dispute, the stakes remain high for global EV markets and the broader trajectory of international green development efforts.
