EU split over Chinese EV tariffs: Germany opposes, France supports
EU countries are divided on whether to endorse additional tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, complicating Brussels’ efforts in gaining support for its largest trade case. Germany, concerned about its carmakers’ heavy reliance on China, opposes the tariffs, while France strongly supports them. A Reuters poll indicates most EU nations are still deliberating on the issue. The European Commission initiated this case independently, aiming to impose provisional duties of up to 37.6% on Chinese automakers like BYD, Geely, and SAIC, as well as on China-produced models of Tesla, BMW, and other Western brands, marking a significant escalation in EU-China trade tensions.