The EU Commission is scheduled to impose fresh duties on EVs imported from China, industry sources told AFP, but China warns that additional EU tariffs on imports of Chinese electric vehicles would "harm Europe's own interests" as it condemned the bloc's "protectionism".

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said, "It goes against the principles of market economy and international trade rules, undermines China-EU economic and trade cooperation, as well as the stability of the global automobile production and supply chain."  

The sources stated that tariffs are expected to be "up to 25 percent" in addition to the existing 10 percent duty.

"We urge the EU side to honor its commitment of supporting free trade and opposing protectionism and work with China to uphold the overall interests of China-EU economic and trade cooperation," Lin stated, adding, "China will take all necessary measures to firmly safeguard its legitimate rights and interests".

'Making tough decisions'

This comes after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen relayed last month that the EU is adamant about resorting to tough measures to protect its economy and security amid strained trade ties with China.

"China that plays fair is good for all of us," she said in her statement, adding, "Europe will not waver from making tough decisions needed to protect its economy and its security...We will defend our companies, we will defend our economies."

Von der Leyen claimed there were "imbalances that remain significant" and "a matter of great concern," as she spoke of Chinese subsidies for electric cars and steel that were "flooding the European market".

The European Commission's trade commissioner suggested that tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) might be implemented by June, following the initiation of an investigation into state assistance for electric car production in China. It is worth noting that any measures must be implemented by July 4.

China has dedicated massive resources to developing technologies relevant to the sector since the early 2000s.

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