The European Union has voted to adopt definitive tariffs on battery electric vehicles imported from China, citing unfair subsidies and potential economic injury to European producers. The decision comes after months of debates among E.U. member countries, with France supporting the tariffs and Germany expressing concerns about the impact on its own carmakers. The E.U. first announced provisional duties in July, and revised its tariff plans in September following comments from interested parties. Individual companies will face duties based on their cooperation with the E.U. investigation into EV production in China. China has criticized the E.U.’s investigation as having “pre-set conclusions” and promoting unfair competition. Despite the tariffs, the E.U. is reportedly willing to continue talks with China. Concerns about potential retaliation from China, which has already launched investigations into E.U. exports, have been raised by some member countries. The decision to impose tariffs on Chinese-made EVs reflects the E.U.’s efforts to protect its own industry and address concerns about unfair trade practices.
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