Germany opposes imposing punitive tariffs on Chinese electric cars: ‘We aim to compete, not hinder’

Germany’s Transport Minister, Volker Wissing, expressed the country’s stance on the European Commission’s investigation into the import of electric cars from China. He emphasized that Germany seeks equal competition rather than a trade war. Wissing, a member of the FDP party, stated in an interview with Stuttgarter Zeitung and Stuttgarter Nachrichten that they aim to compete in the market rather than close it off.

The minister highlighted the importance of creating an environment that allows companies to continue adding value in their home country and defending their position in international trade. Wissing emphasized the need for equal and standardized competition in global trade, without resorting to punitive tariffs that could escalate into a trade war.

Germany heavily relies on global trade, as it produces goods for the entire world. Wissing asserted that Germany’s international position is excellent, especially in terms of the quality of products that they manufacture. The European Commission’s investigation into Chinese electric car exporters aims to determine if subsidies give them an unfair advantage. The investigation could lead to punitive tariffs as Chinese vehicles tend to be around 20 percent cheaper than those produced in the EU.