The European Union has invoked World Trade Organization rules to impose strict annual quotas on Chinese hybrid and electric vehicle imports, capping them at 350,000 cars—a move designed to slash China’s market share in the bloc by two-thirds. The decision follows a surge in Chinese-made battery and plug-in hybrids flooding EU markets in recent years, with sales expected to exceed 800,000 this year alone. The measure aims to protect domestic automakers, including major manufacturers like Volkswagen, which have publicly supported stronger EU industrial policies. Critics warn the restrictions could escalate trade tensions, while supporters argue they are necessary to prevent unfair competition and safeguard Europe’s green automotive transition.
Brussels uses WTO rules to quickly impose quota, which will halve Chinese market share to 3%Business live – latest updatesVW boss backs EU plan to bolster domestic industryThe EU is to limit the number of hybrid electric vehicles imported from China to 350,000 cars a year, the European Commission has confirmed.Imports have been soaring in the past two years; about 800,000 battery and plug-in hybrids are likely to be sold this year. Continue reading...
