Customs duties on Chinese electric cars worry Auto-suisse

Auto-suisse expresses its concerns following the European Commission's announcement to impose, from July 4, customs duties of up to 38.1% on Chinese electric cars. This decision follows that of the Biden administration to quadruple US customs duties on these vehicles.

Auto-suisse President Peter Grünenfelder warns against trade conflicts, stressing that these harm producers and consumers by reducing supply and increasing prices. It calls for conditions favorable to innovation rather than protectionist measures.

Thomas Rücker, director of auto-suisse, contrasts the advantages of free trade with “toxic trade barriers” for the automobile sector. It recommends the establishment of a relevant technological ecosystem, including infrastructure for electric vehicles and synthetic fuels.