The European Union has voted to impose definitive tariffs on battery electric vehicles (BEVs) imported from China, citing unfair subsidies and the threat to European electric vehicle producers. The decision comes after months of debates and deliberations among E.U. member countries, with varying opinions on increasing tariffs. France has been a proponent of tariffs, while Germany has expressed concerns about the impact on its own carmakers. Hungary has indicated that it may veto the proposal from the European Commission. China has criticized the E.U.’s investigation into its subsidies for electric vehicles, calling it unfair competition. The E.U. has indicated that it is willing to continue talks with China despite implementing tariffs. There are concerns about potential retaliation from China, as the country has already launched investigations into E.U. exports of pork, brandy, and dairy products. The European Commission initially announced provisional duties in July, and revised its tariff plans in September based on feedback from stakeholders. Individual companies will face duties based on their cooperation and information provided during the E.U.’s investigation into EV production in China. The E.U.’s decision to impose tariffs highlights the ongoing tensions between the two economic powers in the electric vehicle industry.
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European Union decides to levy tariffs on Chinese electric cars
