China says committed to dialogue to resolve EV tariff dispute with EU

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian told media at a regular press briefing that China has proposed flexible solutions to the dispute. However, the EU keeps rejecting China's proposals and fails to offer any specific counterproposal despite claiming to be willing to address differences through dialogue.

He said the anti-subsidy investigation against Chinese EVs initiated by the European Commission is a typical act of protectionism and political maneuvering.

The EU probe disregards objective facts, ignores World Trade Organization rules,  goes against historical trends and undermines the EU's green transition and global efforts to combat climate change, Lin said.

The EU began imposing provisional additional tariffs ranging from 17.4 percent to 37.6 percent on imports of Chinese EVs as of July 5, 2024, with a four-month period during which a final decision on definitive duties will be made.

The Chinese spokesperson on Wednesday expressed hope that the EU can show sincerity and take action to consider the reasonable concerns and suggestions from the Chinese EV industry.

If the European Commission insists on its unilateral approach, China will take necessary measures to firmly defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese businesses and industries, said Lin.