EU set to impose countervailing duties on Chinese electric cars

Brussels – The European Commission has decided to impose provisional countervailing duties on the imports of electric vehicles manufactured in China, according to the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA).

The ‘provisional duties’ of up to 38% are based on the initial findings of an anti-subsidiary investigation launched last  year and will come into effect 4 July.

In reaction to the decision, ACEA said it had “consistently affirmed that a free and fair trade is essential in creating a globally competitive European automotive industry.”

Furthermore, the European automotive association stressed that 'free and fair trade' involved “guaranteeing a level playing field for all competitors.”

To be globally competitive, “the European automotive sector needs above all else... a robust industrial strategy for electromobility,” stated ACEA director general, Sigrid de Vries.

This, he said, means “ensuring access to critical materials and affordable energy, a coherent regulatory framework, sufficient charging and hydrogen refilling infrastructure, market incentives, and so much more.”

According to ACEA, the European Commission investigation will continue for several months until the Commission decides whether to propose definitive anti-subsidy measures.

Member states will then vote on the proposal.