Italy backs EU’s Chinese tariffs

Antonio Tajani, the Italian Foreign Minister, has indicated great support for the European Commission's suggested duties on exports of Chinese electric vehicles (EV). Tajani underlined in an interview with Corriere della Sera the need of supporting the EU's anti-subsidy action against China-made EVs in order to preserve European companies' competitiveness.

This comment preceded Tajani's meeting with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao in Rome, as Wang travels Europe to address the approaching vote on extra tariffs. On top of the regular 10% car import duty, the levies may go up to 35.3% Italy demands equitable market access for European goods and aims to guarantee a balanced trade environment even as it keeps friendly relations with China.

The 27 member states of the EU will vote on the proposed tariffs; implementation is envisaged by the end of October unless a qualified majority objects to the action. Italy is still looking at a negotiated solution even if at first it supported the tariffs in a non-binding vote in July.

Tajani underlined the need of reciprocity and cooperation in trade and underlined Italy's position—about guaranteeing fair competition instead of upsetting China. This follows the visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to China in July meant to increase cooperation, especially following Italy's departure from the Belt and Road Initiative. Later this year, President Sergio Mattarella is also set to visit China accompanied by Tajani.