Chinese official engages in extensive discussions on electric vehicle tariffs

By AJP Posted : September 19, 2024, 09:48 Updated : September 19, 2024, 09:49
The image shows Electric vehicle charging station in China Reuters-Yonhap
Electric vehicles are being charged at a station in China, in this undated photo. Reuters-Yonhap
SEOUL, September 19 (AJP) - China's Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reaffirmed on Wednesday that China remains committed to resolving the electric vehicle (EV) tariff dispute with the EU through diplomatic channels. This statement came in response to inquiries about Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao's recent meetings with officials from key EU member states regarding the EV tariff issue.

Lin criticized the EU's investigation into Chinese EVs as protectionist and politically motivated, arguing that it disregards World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and hinders global climate change efforts. He urged European officials to approach the matter sincerely.

On Tuesday, Minister Wang met with Wolfgang Schmidt, head of Germany's Federal Chancellery, in Berlin. Their discussions focused on the EU's anti-subsidy case against Chinese EVs. Wang emphasized China's commitment to diplomatic resolution, in line with agreements between Chinese and European leaders to avoid escalating trade tensions.

Wang expressed disappointment over the EU's rejection of solutions proposed by Chinese industry representatives and its insistence on high anti-subsidy tariffs. He requested that Germany, as a key EU member, encourage the European Commission to demonstrate political willingness to work with China towards an appropriate resolution.

These discussions are part of a series of meetings Wang is conducting with EU member state leaders ahead of his scheduled meeting with European Commission Executive Vice President and Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis on Thursday.
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