The Chinese Commerce Ministry announced on Tuesday that China will implement all necessary measures to robustly defend the legitimate rights and interests of its companies against the European Union's proposed import duties on Chinese electric vehicles.

Earlier in the day, the European Commission revealed its draft decision to impose import duties on Chinese electric cars, with rates varying from 17% to 36.3%, depending on the manufacturer. In comparison, import duties on Tesla are set at 9%. These measures are anticipated to be finalized by November.

The ministry stated, "China will take all necessary measures to resolutely protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises." It criticized the EU's actions as "unfair competition under the guise of fair competition," and voiced strong objections and significant concern.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry reiterated its commitment to resolving trade disputes with the EU through dialogue and consultations. It expressed hope that the EU would adopt a rational and pragmatic approach and expedite discussions to address the existing disagreements.

China requests WTO consultations over EU tariffs on EVs

Last week, China launched a dispute settlement procedure at the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding the European Union's tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, the WTO announced on Wednesday.

The Chinese Commerce Ministry reported last week that Beijing had appealed to the WTO's dispute settlement mechanism over the EU's tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.

"China has requested WTO dispute consultations with the European Union regarding the EU's anti-subsidy investigation on imported battery electric vehicles from China and the subsequent imposition of provisional countervailing duties on the targeted vehicles.

The request was circulated to WTO members on 14 August," the WTO said in a statement.