A week of negotiations in Beijing on reducing or eliminating EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles ended with an optimistic statement from both sides. The EU executive body and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce called the results «technical progress», hinting at moving forward. Although serious disagreements remain over unfair subsidies for Chinese electric car manufacturers, the negotiations, according to experts, demonstrate a willingness to compromise. The key point of discussion is the so-called price commitment mechanism, which can avoid the introduction of tariffs. The EU insists on strict compliance with the rules of the World Trade Organization, including the negotiation of any agreements with them. China, on the other hand, is striving for a framework agreement, which creates an obstacle to a solution. It is noteworthy that China's invitation to the talks was perceived as a positive signal indicating Beijing's readiness for a serious dialogue. But despite the progress, a final decision is still far away. The EU demands that the agreement not only comply with WTO rules, but also compensate for the full effect of the duties already imposed.
