Brussels’ decision on import tariffs for Chinese electric cars reflects Euro-Atlantic unity in curbing China’s economic ambitions

On June 14, the European Commission notified the Chinese government and Chinese electric car manufacturers that starting in July, it will impose tariffs of up to 38% on imports of Chinese electric cars, increasing duties to more than $2 billion a year.

The introduction of import tariffs by the European Union is in line with the White House’s decision in May to impose a 100 percent duty on Chinese electric vehicles as early as 2024.

The coordination of EU and US efforts in trade restrictions is evidenced, in particular, by the EU’s announcement of import tariffs at the G7 summit, joint calls by EU and US leaders to prevent China from subsidizing the automotive market unfairly, and their sole purpose in taking action to protect national automakers.