China urges EU to reverse 'wrong practices' on EV tariffs

BEIJING, June 13 (Reuters): Beijing on Thursday slammed EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles as protectionist behaviour and said it hoped the European bloc would correct its "wrong practices" and handle trade frictions through dialogue.

The reaction from China and others embroiled in the dispute, including European and Chinese car makers, points to clear opposition to the EU decision and an eagerness to de-escalate the situation. Industry insiders say both Europe and China have reasons for wanting to strike a deal in the months ahead to avoid the addition of billions of dollars in new costs for Chinese electric car makers, as the EU process allows for review.

China said it would take "all necessary measures" to safeguard its interests after the European Commission announced on Wednesday it would impose extra duties of up to 38.1 per cent on imported Chinese electric cars.