Opel CEO on import tariffs on Chinese EVs: “Further fragmentation of world not desirable”
Not becoming dependent on import tariffs
“Innovation is best possible with an open market,” Huettl stated in an interview with AutoRAI.nl. “We should not depend on import duties to be competitive in Europe. In the long run, those import taxes are not good. You have to be innovative and competitive in an open market. An open market is a healthy market, not a market tied to import duties.”
Further fragmenting the world
Opel sells its models in very many countries. “Opel is an international player for good reason, just like so many other car manufacturers. Import tariffs are then absolutely not desirable to do business in a healthy way. These import tariffs fragment the world even more than it already is. And that’s something we don’t like to see.”
Import duties
The European Union has finally decided to impose additional import duties on electric cars from China. These levies, which took effect Oct. 31, 2024, vary by manufacturer:
- SAIC Motor: 35.3%
- Geely: 18.8%
- BYD: 17%
- Tesla: 7.8%
Five years
These rates are in addition to the existing 10% import tariff. The measures are set for a five-year period and are intended to protect the European auto industry from unfair competition from subsidized Chinese vehicles.
Objection
China has logically objected to these duties and filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO). In addition, China is considering countermeasures, such as increasing import tariffs on European products, including pork and cognac.
Although import duties have been raised, it is still unclear whether this will lead to higher prices for Chinese electric cars in Europe. Some manufacturers may choose to absorb the additional costs themselves to maintain their competitive position.
