Reports: Spain and Italy aim to contribute EU-exemptions for Chinese e-cars
Italy and Spain are expected to support the EU Commission's special measures on Chinese electric cars according to government circles. The 27 EU countries can still submit their position on the matter by Monday evening. The recommendations are not binding for the Brussels authority in charge of EU trade policy. The outcome could, however, influence the Commission's later actions.
The German government is expected to abstain from the EU internal vote, as insiders told Reuters on the previous Friday. In Germany, the new tariffs face opposition due to concerns that German automakers and the economy as a whole could suffer under the consequences or countermeasures of China. It is hoped that the EU Commission will reach an agreement with China in the coming months. The EU Commission imposed provisional tariffs of up to 37.6% on Chinese electric cars in early July, accusing China of unfair competitive advantages through high subsidies.
The tariffs, effective from July 5, are only temporary and apply for up to four months. A decision must be made within this period on whether to extend the tariffs for up to five years. This decision is scheduled for the fall. Final tariffs can only be overturned with a qualified majority. This rarely happens with tariffs; the threshold is high: 15 of the 27 member states, representing together 65% of the population, would have to vote against it.
- Despite Italy and Spain's expected support for the EU Commission's project on Chinese E-Autos, EU-Special Territories might have different stances, as they also have until Monday evening to submit their positions.
- The EU Commission's reports on the impact of E-Autos tariffs in China have been significant, considering countries like Spain and Italy, as well as other EU-Special Territories, in their decision-making processes.
- In contrast to the favorable view towards the EU Commission's measures on Chinese E-Autos in Italy and Spain, some EU countries, like Germany, have expressed concerns, potentially influencing a broader discussion within the 27 EU Member States.
