Italy supports the European Commission’s proposal to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle (EV) exports, according to Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. In an interview with Corriere della Sera ahead of a meeting with China’s commerce minister in Rome, Tajani stated, “We back the duties suggested by the EU Commission to safeguard our companies’ competitiveness.”
China’s Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao is visiting Europe to discuss the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese-made EVs, with a vote on potential tariffs looming. After meeting Tajani, Wang will also hold talks with European Commission Executive Vice President and Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis on September 19.
Tajani emphasized that Italy seeks a trade relationship based on fairness and reciprocity, ensuring equal market access for European products. “Our companies must be able to compete on equal terms,” he said, adding that Italy’s goal is to foster “positive cooperation and true reciprocity” with China to prevent market distortions like dumping.
While Italy had previously expressed support for tariffs in a non-binding EU vote in July, Industry Minister Adolfo Urso indicated last week that a negotiated solution might still be possible.
Italy, a significant car manufacturer and home to brands like Fiat (part of Stellantis), has been trying to attract Chinese automakers such as Dongfeng and Chery Auto to establish production facilities and boost vehicle output. Tajani noted that Italy’s stance on tariffs would not affect its “good relations” with China.
At the end of July, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited China to strengthen economic ties following Italy’s decision to exit the Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. Later this year, President Sergio Mattarella, accompanied by Tajani, is scheduled to visit China.
The European Commission is expected to propose tariffs of up to 35.3% on Chinese-built EVs, in addition to the EU’s standard 10% car import duty. The proposed tariffs will need approval from the EU’s 27 member states, with implementation expected by the end of October unless a qualified majority of EU members votes against them.
Source: Business Standard