China has called on the European Union (EU) to take concrete steps toward resolving the ongoing anti-subsidy dispute over Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) through dialogue and consultation. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, He Yadong, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce, emphasized the need for pragmatic and balanced negotiations to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome.
The dispute, which has drawn significant attention from various industries in both China and Europe, revolves around EU concerns that Chinese EV manufacturers receive unfair government subsidies, making their vehicles more competitive in the European market. In response, the European Commission launched an investigation into the matter, raising the possibility of imposing tariffs on Chinese-made EVs.
China, however, has maintained that the best path forward is through constructive discussions rather than unilateral measures. During a video conference last Friday, China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and Ola Kallenius, president of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) and chairman of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, discussed the situation. Kallenius reiterated that European car manufacturers support a swift resolution through dialogue, reflecting broader concerns within the industry about the potential impact of the dispute on global supply chains and market stability.
He Yadong underscored that China has been actively engaging with the EU to promote dialogue and negotiation, urging European policymakers to listen to industry voices. “China and the EU are important trade partners with complementary economic and trade relations,” he stated. “It is in the best interest of both sides to work together to advance negotiations and ensure a fair and open market environment.”
This year marks the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic relations, a milestone that China hopes will serve as a foundation for deeper cooperation, particularly in green industries such as electric vehicles. Beijing has expressed its willingness to collaborate with the EU on advancing sustainable technologies and ensuring the stability of global EV supply chains.
While trade frictions remain a challenge, China’s call for negotiation highlights a broader effort to prevent escalating tensions that could disrupt trade flows. Industry stakeholders in Europe have also voiced concerns that retaliatory measures could drive up prices for EVs and slow down Europe’s green transition.
As discussions continue, the global automotive sector will be watching closely to see whether both parties can find a middle ground that preserves trade relations and supports the growth of the EV industry. The outcome of these negotiations could set a precedent for future economic engagements between China and the EU, shaping the direction of global trade policies in the green energy sector.
