Mercedes boss calls for scrapping sanctions on Chinese electric cars

Mercedes-Benz chief executive Ola Källenius has called on European Union leaders to drop punitive tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. He believes such a protectionist move would have a negative impact on the automotive industry.

In October 2024, the EU raised tariffs on imports of Chinese electric vehicles to 45% following a sharp rise in sales. European officials argued that Chinese automakers were receiving unfair subsidies. 

In response, China imposed anti-dumping duties on cognac and launched investigations into pork and dairy products.

Källenius noted that the introduced tariffs could cause serious damage to the industry and urged Brussels to seek a compromise with Beijing on repealing these measures. 

He also emphasised that China has become an integral part of the global automotive supply chain, including raw materials, advanced chips and components.