La European Union has decided to impose provisional tariffs on Chinese electric cars, which will range between 17% and 38%, starting in July. This measure seeks to balance competition in the automobile market, since it is considered that Chinese manufacturers have been receiving state subsidies that give them an unfair advantage, making European cars unable to compete on equal prices.
The Tariffs will affect large manufacturers such as BYD, Geely and SAIC, with specific rates assigned to each one. In addition, an average tariff of 21% will be applied to those manufacturers that have collaborated in the European Commission's investigation, while those that did not will face a tariff of 38,1%, as a "punishment."
La decision has generated a debate among EU member states. France and Spain have defended these rates, arguing that they will protect the European automotive industry and generate significant revenue through sales of Chinese electric vehicles in Europe.
On the other hand, Germany, Sweden and Hungary oppose tariffs, concerned about possible retaliation from China and the impact on their own exports to the Asian country. Germany, in particular, fears that China could block its exports, which would be a blow to its economy as it is an important market for German carmakers. And European manufacturers achieved a 6% share in China, which is not inconsiderable.
China has warned it will take action if these tariffs are imposed, which could include blocking European exports.. This has led some countries to push for the anti-subsidy investigation to be cancelled. The situation is delicate, since the EU does not want to close its market to Chinese electric vehicles, which are essential for the ecological transition, but at the same time seeks to guarantee fair competition.
The impact on the Chinese electric car market
El Impact of tariffs on Chinese electric car imports could be significant. According to a study by the Kiel Institute, increasing tariffs by 20% could reduce imports by 25%. This could be offset by increased production within the EU and a lower volume of EV exports, which would likely result in higher prices for end consumers. In fact, this seems to be the path followed by some Chinese manufacturers, such as Chery, which has chosen the former Nissan area in Barcelona to produce the first Chinese cars in Europe.
Furthermore, Euro 7 regulations It could also make vehicles more expensive, without necessarily reducing pollution. In terms of market shares, the European Commission expects Chinese electric vehicles to maintain close to 15% market share in the EU in 2025.