The European Union has raised tariffs on electric vehicles from China to protect its automotive industry. The new tariffs range from 17.4% to 37.6%, which is higher than the existing 10% duty. Such a move could make electric vehicles less affordable for European consumers and deal a blow to the Chinese economy, which is already in a trade conflict with the United States. EU officials accuse China of unfair subsidies that allow electric vehicles to be sold at low prices. China denies these accusations, but the new tariffs, which may come into force before the end of the year, have already begun to affect the market. This move affects not only Chinese brands, but also Western companies that manufacture cars in China. The EU says it is trying to fix a distorted market. According to «Transport and Environment», sales of Chinese electric vehicles in the EU have increased from 0.4% to almost 8% in recent years. In response to the introduction of new tariffs, some Chinese manufacturers are planning to build factories in the EU, which may help avoid new duties. BYD is already building a factory in Hungary, and Chery is planning a joint venture in Barcelona. It is worth noting that the increase in tariffs for Chinese electric vehicles in the EU may have far-reaching consequences for all market participants. For Chinese manufacturers, this means more difficult access to the European market, which is one of the largest and most promising for electric vehicles. At the same time, European manufacturers may gain a temporary advantage, as tariffs create additional barriers to competition from cheap Chinese models.
