China’s Commerce Ministry has sharply criticized the European Union’s threat to impose punitive tariffs on electric cars from the People’s Republic and hinted at countermeasures.
Beijing will closely monitor the further process from the European side and resolutely take all necessary measures to protect the rights and interests of Chinese companies, a ministry spokesperson announced on Wednesday.
China is very concerned and dissatisfied with the EU’s behavior and Chinese industry is disappointed, he said.
The European Commission has threatened high interim punitive duties on e-cars from China. Whether manufacturers will actually have to pay the tariffs of up to 38.1% depends on whether another solution can be found with China.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, the advice in the published announcement lacks any factual or legal basis. The EU engaged in protectionist behavior that caused and exacerbated trade tensions, the EU said.
The ministry also accused the EU of disrupting the global automotive industry supply chain.
“The European Commission is holding up the banner of green development with one hand and waving a protectionist stick with the other,” the spokesperson said.
China called on the EU to correct its flawed practices and appropriately address economic tensions in trade through dialogue.
