From 5 July 2024, electric cars produced in China and imported into Europe will be subject to the provisional duties. By 30 October, according to the Commission regulation, the final verdict will be published in the Official Journal and any measures adopted from that moment on will last five yearsa period that can be extended upon motivated request and after a subsequent review. It is in this context that the the visit to Europe of the Chinese Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentaowho met with the top officials of the Italian government yesterday.
China is willing to promote mutual investment between the two countries’ automakers, Wang told Reuters, “however, the EU investigation into Chinese electric vehicles has seriously compromised trust of Chinese car companies in investing in Italy”.
What Italy thinks about tariffs
Cooperation between the Chinese and Italian auto sectors has a “solid” foundation and “enormous” potential, Wang told Italy’s Minister of Economic Development, Adolfo Ursoduring yesterday’s meeting in Rome. China is interested in producing cars in our country (Dongfeng is at the forefront), but the final decision will depend on politics.
Italy initially supported the tariffs in a non-binding vote of European Union members in July, but Urso told Reuters last week he expected a negotiated solution.
Meanwhile, yesterday the Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, met with Wang Wentao, reiterating “Italy’s willingness to collaborate” with China.
Europe will decide soon
Wang will meet with the European Commission’s Executive Vice President and Commissioner for Trade on Thursday, Valdis Dombrovskisand hopes that “the European Commission will respond to the requests of all parties and adequately resolve the economic and trade differences between China and the EU through dialogue and consultation”.
Next week could be decisive for the issue of tariffs on Chinese cars, on which they depend car price lists soon to debut, such as the Dongfeng Box (rival of the Fiat Grande Panda or the Renault 5) or the Voyah Courage. Keep following us to stay informed.
Source: it.motor1.com
