Britain prepares duties on Chinese electric cars after EU demand

The UK has begun developing possible import duties on Chinese-made electric cars. The package of tariff measures is being prepared by business minister Jonathan Reynolds, The Times newspaper reported.

According to the newspaper, Brussels insists on the introduction of such restrictions. The EU fears that Chinese cars could cross the UK into the wider European market.

It is expected that the introduction of duties can lead to an increase in the cost of cars for buyers. At the same time, the measure should provide additional protection for British manufacturers.

On the demand of the European Union to London to impose tariffs earlier, in September, reported the Financial Times. The publication linked the position of Brussels with the statement of British Prime Minister Andy Burnham about the intention to achieve the status of a “reliable partner” of the EU and equal access of British goods to the European market.

The European Union itself imposed additional duties on Chinese electric cars in the fall of 2024 after an investigation into state subsidies for the industry in China. For BYD cars, the tariff was set at 17%, Geely - 18.8%, SAIC - 35.3%. For products of other companies, the rate is 20.7%.

At the same time, Chinese cars already occupy a significant share of the British market. According to The Times, nearly a quarter of the cars sold in the UK in September were made in China. In addition, Chinese brands took 5 positions among the 25 most popular automotive brands in the country.