German Economy Minister assures China EU tariffs are not punitive, aim for fair market access

(MENAFN) During his visit to Beijing, German Economy Minister Robert Habeck conveyed to Chinese officials that the tariffs proposed by the European Union (EU) on Chinese goods are not intended as punitive measures. This visit marks the first by a senior European official since the EU proposed imposing significant duties on imports of Chinese-made electric cars, citing concerns over what it perceives as excessive government support. Ahead of Habeck’s arrival, China had issued warnings that escalating disputes with the EU regarding electric cars could escalate into a trade war.

Addressing the first session of the climate and transition dialogue between the two countries, Habeck emphasized that the tariffs proposed by the EU are distinct from punitive fees, contrasting the approach taken by countries like the United States, Brazil, and Turkey. He highlighted that the EU operates differently, focusing on achieving common and equal standards of market access. Habeck pointed out that the European Commission conducted a thorough nine-month review to determine if Chinese companies unfairly benefited from subsidies, clarifying that any measures taken by the EU are aimed at compensating for advantages granted by Beijing to Chinese firms.

In discussions with Zheng Shanjie, Chairman of China’s National Development and Reform Commission, Habeck reiterated that the proposed EU tariffs seek to level the playing field between the EU and China. In response, Cheng assured Habeck that China would endeavor to protect its companies. However, Cheng expressed concerns that the proposed EU tariffs on the import of Chinese-made electric cars would have detrimental effects on both sides, highlighting the complexities and potential repercussions of the ongoing trade disputes between the EU and China.