On October 29, local time, Hildegard Mueller, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry, issued a statement saying that the EU’s imposition of tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China is a setback for global free trade, which will have a negative impact on Europe’s prosperity, employment and economic growth. Mueller warned that this move could increase the risk of trade conflicts and ultimately damage the entire industry.

Mueller said that trade disputes should be resolved through dialogue. She called on the government to take measures to enhance Germany’s international competitiveness as a producer and exporter, promote market diversification, and encourage innovation to ensure that Germany continues to play an active role on the global stage.

At the same time, Mueller admitted that the imposition of tariffs will directly lead to higher costs for consumers to buy cars and may hinder the promotion of electric vehicles. She called on all parties to continue to keep the negotiations open and strive to find solutions to eliminate additional tariffs through dialogue under the framework of the World Trade Organization.