The German Association of Automobile Industry issued a statement yesterday (3rd), expressing that the EU's imposition of tariffs on electric vehicles in mainland China does not help achieve fair competition and protect local markets, and causes damage to European consumers and businesses, which is not the EU's intent. The statement also pointed out that tariffs will only hinder the development of the local electric vehicle market in the EU, making it more difficult for the industry to achieve the climate goals in the Paris Agreement. The Association stated that tariffs are not a long-term method to enhance European competitiveness, and recommended that the EU strengthen the competitiveness of the European automotive industry through promoting innovation and free trade, etc.

The Association stated that the EU should not impose tariffs but should discuss solutions with mainland China. It believes that both the EU and mainland China should abide by their respective responsibilities and establish a fair competition environment for all stakeholders to achieve the goal of transformation.

The Association pointed out that tariffs not only affect mainland manufacturers, but also have an impact on European companies and their joint ventures, because most of the cars imported from mainland China to the EU are made by European and American manufacturers, and the tariffs that European companies have to pay are sometimes higher than those of mainland China companies. The cooperation and production of European manufacturers in mainland China is also an important part of European transformation and competitiveness.