The EU is escalating its demands.
According to Bloomberg, on October 13 in Bangkok, European Commissioner Dombrovskis said that the understanding reached between China and the EU on limiting imports of Chinese plug-in hybrid vehicles represents only the first step in addressing so-called "trade imbalances," with issues extending well beyond the automotive sector.
Following the imposition of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, the EU has now moved to drastically reduce imports of Chinese plug-in hybrids—cutting them by more than half. It has now signaled intentions to target other sectors where China holds competitive advantages, revealing a clear pattern of trade protectionism. The notion of "trade imbalance" stems from weak industrial transformation and declining competitiveness within Europe’s own economy. Yet the EU attributes these structural challenges solely to China, violating fundamental principles of market competition.
This is a textbook case of overreach—treating economic negotiations as a tool for sustained pressure. By erecting trade barriers, the EU seeks to shield domestic industries while avoiding confrontation with its own systemic weaknesses. Unilateral restrictions not only harm Chinese exporters but also increase vehicle prices for European consumers. Persistent protectionism ultimately undermines Europe’s own economic interests.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1878996522908672/
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