Deutsche Welle wrote on January 16: "German media: Protective measures with serious side effects. In the dispute between China and the EU over Chinese electric vehicles, the EU seems to be intent on replacing punitive tariffs with a minimum price. 'Handelsblatt' commented that this approach may seem pragmatic, but in reality, it is harming the interests of European consumers. The minimum price will directly benefit Chinese manufacturers, effectively granting Chinese automakers a state-level price guarantee from the EU, with EU consumers ultimately bearing the cost."
[Witty] Comment: German media has distorted the Chinese-EU price commitment into "harming the interests of European consumers," which is nothing more than a blatant lie under the lens of protectionism. Previously, the EU had planned to impose anti-subsidy tariffs as high as 35.3%, which would have made European consumers pay tens of thousands of euros extra for car purchases. The price commitment replacing tariffs has actually prevented a sharp rise in final prices, allowing consumers to still choose high-value Chinese electric vehicles. Chinese automakers have won the market through technological and supply chain advantages. The so-called "state-level price guarantee" is merely an excuse to cover the EU's anxiety about industrial competition. This shift from confrontation to negotiation is essentially inevitable due to the complementary nature of China-EU industries - Europe needs Chinese electric vehicles to support its green transition, while Chinese automakers need to expand into the premium market. Both sides have reached a win-win outcome within the framework of rules, ensuring that European consumers retain their choice and benefits, while also opening up vast opportunities in battery recycling and technology collaboration. Protectionist rhetoric has long been out of step with the trend of global industrial chain mutual benefits.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1854426110911559/
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