In a latest development on the ongoing negotiations between China and the European Union (EU) regarding tariffs on electric vehicle (EV) imports, Beijing has asserted that it will not make any concessions. A social media account associated with the Chinese state broadcaster stated that while China is open to seeking consensus and resolving issues through communication, it will not yield to the escalating pressure from various trade disputes.

The comments, attributed to the account Yuryuan Tantian, were reported by the South China Morning Post. The statement emphasized that China remains resolute in safeguarding its core interests and will not compromise on them, regardless of the direction the negotiations take.

The timing of these remarks is significant, as China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao is scheduled to hold talks with the EU's trade commissioner, Valdis Dombrovskis, on September 19. The meeting is seen as a critical opportunity for Beijing to persuade the EU against imposing substantial duties on EVs manufactured in China.

The EU's intention in imposing tariffs is to level the playing field, countering what they claim to be extensive government subsidies that have facilitated the growth of the entire Chinese EV supply chain, from battery materials to shipping. A vote is scheduled for September 25 to determine whether definitive tariffs will be imposed.

Earlier this week, the European Commission rejected undisclosed proposals put forward by Beijing that aimed to establish minimum prices or volume caps on EV shipments into the EU. The rejection follows the findings of EU investigators, who uncovered substantial subsidies throughout the Chinese EV industry.

With the discussions between China and the EU approaching a crucial stage, both parties remain determined to protect their respective interests. As the negotiations unfold, it remains to be seen whether a mutually beneficial agreement can be reached to address the concerns surrounding tariffs on electric vehicle imports.