The European Union is preparing to vote on imposing tariffs of up to 45% on electric vehicles (EVs) imported from China.
According to Bloomberg News, the vote is scheduled for October 4 as the potential tariffs are part of a broader effort to protect the European market from what the EU views as unfair competition from Chinese-made EVs.
]However, there is a possibility that the date of the vote could still change, based on the latest developments.
Member states have already received a draft of the regulation outlining the proposed measures. The vote was slightly delayed due to ongoing negotiations with China, as the two sides attempt to resolve the issue without implementing the new tariffs. Despite these discussions, the EU remains firm in its stance to protect its automotive industry.
The European Commission has not yet commented on the situation, leaving some uncertainty about the final outcome. Meanwhile, it is clear that the proposed tariffs are on the table and will be put to a vote by the EU’s 27 member states.
If approved, the European Commission will impose final tariffs of up to 35.3% on Chinese-built EVs, in addition to the existing 10% car import duty. These measures are aimed at leveling the playing field for European automakers, who have expressed concerns over the rapid influx of cheaper EVs from China.
The proposed tariffs will only take effect if a qualified majority of EU members support the move. This means at least 15 countries, representing 65% of the EU’s population, must vote in favor. The vote is seen as a crucial step in determining the future of the European electric vehicle market.
Unless a resolution is reached in the ongoing talks with Beijing, the new levies are expected to be implemented by the end of October. The outcome of the vote will be closely watched by both European automakers and their Chinese counterparts.