Mercedes: Chinese tariffs would be a mistake

Following the EU vote allowing for additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, German carmaker Mercedes fears negative impacts on the industry.

"We are convinced that punitive tariffs will worsen the competitiveness of an industry in the long term," a spokeswoman said on Friday.

Free trade and fair competition, she asserted, secure prosperity, growth and innovation. The potential imposition of punitive tariffs planned by the European Commission, she suggested, is considered a mistake that could have far-reaching negative consequences.

The Stuttgart-based car manufacturer instead advocates for a negotiated solution with China, arguing that this is in the mutual interest of both parties.

"We are convinced that such a solution is possible," she noted further. However, the development of such a solution will require time, so the implementation of the measures must be postponed.

In a vote in Brussels, there was not a sufficient majority of EU countries against additional EU tariffs on electric cars from China, which means the commission can decide to impose duties of up to 35.3%. Germany had opposed the move.

The tariffs are a response to Chinese subsidies. Whether they will be implemented also depends on the success of negotiations with China.