European ministers urge urgent tariffs on Chinese cars to match US
The Italian Minister of Industry believes the European Commission should follow the USA's example and raise tariffs on Chinese cars as soon as possible. In his opinion, this decision is a matter of life and death for the European automotive industry.
Chinese car manufacturers are increasingly successful outside their homeland, boldly expanding their influence in Europe and America. This evokes strong emotions and prompts action from the previously dominant automotive companies and politicians.
US President Joe Biden, for instance, decided to increase tariffs on electric vehicles originating from China significantly. From August 2024, they will rise from 25% to as much as 100%. Tariffs on semiconductors from China have also doubled and will amount to 50%.
The European Union is concluding the process of checking the impact of Chinese state subsidies on the operation of Chinese car brands. According to behind-the-scenes reports, the investigation, the details of which will be revealed in June, will also result in a significant increase in tariffs.
While some manufacturers criticize the alleged EU plans, the ruling authorities speak differently. A good example is the Italian Minister of Industry, Adolfo Urso.
On Saturday, 25 May, the politician spoke at a business conference in Trento. Urso, quoted by the Italian portal "Agenzia Nova", called on the European Commission to take decisive action and "follow the USA's example." He warned that otherwise, the European automotive industry would be written off and unable to compete with Chinese companies.
