China Reports Progress in EV Tariff Talks With EU
China's commerce ministry said on Tuesday that negotiations with the European Union over tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) had made progress and were moving toward an easing of tensions.
Commerce Minister Wang Wentao made the remarks after meeting with the head of the German Association of the Automotive Industry. He called on the EU to respect World Trade Organisation rules and promote free competition, adding that European institutions should revise certain provisions that Beijing considers inappropriate.
The European Commission imposed additional tariffs on EVs made in China from 2024. In February 2026, however, it approved its first exemption, covering the Cupra Tavascan model manufactured in China. The exemption is tied to a minimum price and annual quotas.
A representative of China's ministry of industry said the country welcomes foreign manufacturers and is ready to cooperate on joint innovation in the automotive sector.