MNI BRIEF: EU States Look Set To Back China EV Tariffs
MNI (BRUSSELS) - European Union states look set to back the Commission's proposal to impose tariffs of between 8% and 35% on China-made electric vehicle imports in a vote on Friday morning, officials in Brussels told MNI.
While France and Italy are likely to vote for the tariffs, indications are that Spain and Germany will not oppose the new duties. Although both countries have pushed for a resolution of the dispute, neither wants to be seen as lacking in solidarity. (See MNI EM: EU Cautious As China Offers EV Quota - Officials )
Opposition to the tariffs could come from Hungary, Cyprus, Czechia and Malta.
The Commission is expected to follow up the vote with a statement on next steps and is likely to also underline its continuing openness to a negotiated solution with China.
The move may prompt further retaliation from China, sources warned. China has already announced moves against French cognac and EU pork exports as well as an investigation into EU subsidies of its dairy exports.