European Commission to Impose Up to 45% Tariffs on Chinese EVs

France, Greece, Italy, and Poland are set to vote in favor of imposing tariffs of up to 45% on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs), bolstering the European Commission's significant trade measure. The move aims to protect the EU market from a surge in cheap, state-subsidized Chinese EV imports, potentially causing trade tensions with Beijing.

France, Greece, Italy, and Poland will vote on Friday to approve tariffs of up to 45% on electric vehicles (EVs) imported from China, insiders reported. This decision is enough to advance the EU's substantial trade measure, risking possible retaliatory actions from China.

The European Commission, currently investigating Chinese EV subsidies, has proposed final tariffs for a vote by the EU's 27 member states. This support significantly boosts one of Brussels' largest trade cases ever. However, Germany's stance remains uncertain. According to EU rules, the tariffs can be implemented for five years unless opposed by a qualified majority.

France, Greece, Italy, and Poland represent 39% of the EU population, showing strong support for the tariffs. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the need to safeguard against a flood of state-subsidized Chinese EV imports. China's EV registrations soared from 3.5% of the EU market in 2020 to 27.2% in the second quarter of 2024, putting European brands at risk.

(With inputs from agencies.)