Mercedes issues a caution about the potential for a lasting decline in competitive edge.
Following the EU's decision to impose extra taxes on Chinese electric vehicles, Daimler, the company behind Mercedes, expresses concerns about potential damage to the industry. "We firmly believe that these tariffs will negatively impact the industry's long-term competitiveness," a representative stated. Free trade and equal competition foster prosperity, growth, and innovation. The EU Commission's proposed tariffs are seen as a misstep that could lead to significant, unfavorable outcomes.
Mercedes supports finding a mutual agreement with China, a move they believe would benefit both parties. "We are convinced that such a resolution is attainable," the representative explained. However, this process would require time, so implementing measures should be postponed temporarily.
During a Brussels vote, sufficiently few EU nations opposed the EU's proposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Consequently, despite Germany's objections, the EU Commission is empowered to levy duties of up to 35.3%. These taxes serve as a retaliation against China's subsidies. Whether these duties will be enforced hinges on successful negotiations with China.
The representative from Mercedes, in response to questioning about the tariffs, exclaimed, "-What? Taxes on Chinese electric vehicles could harm the industry's growth?" Despite the temporary postponement of measures, they remain hopeful for a mutually beneficial agreement with China, expressing, "-What if we could find a resolution together, benefiting both parties?"
