China and the European Union (EU) have agreed to resolve through dialogue the dispute over the EU's anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles. Following video conference talks between China's Minister of Commerce, Wang Wentao, and the Executive Vice President and Commissioner for Trade of the European Commission, Valdis Dombrovskis, both parties have decided to maintain the pricing commitment as a solution to the case.
In this regard, Wang highlighted that some positive progress has been made in certain aspects during the intense negotiations held since September 20. However, significant differences remain on issues of fundamental interest to the business communities of both parties, he noted.
The Chinese minister assured that his country will firmly defend the legitimate rights and interests of its companies and expressed hope for substantial progress in the negotiations as soon as possible. In the next stage, consultations are expected to be conducted taking into account the fundamental concerns of both parties, based on principles of pragmatism and balance.
For its part, the European side has proposed that the technical teams from both sides conduct video consultations regarding the pricing commitment plan and has presented specific suggestions in this regard. A bilateral communication mechanism is expected to be established for the implementation and oversight of the pricing commitment, based on mutual trust. The Chinese side has agreed to welcome the European technical team to visit China as soon as possible, as part of the ongoing negotiations.
Both blocs have exchanged views on the investigations that China has initiated against certain EU products, such as brandy, pork, and dairy products. China has assured that these investigations were requested by its domestic industries and are being carried out in accordance with the rules of the World Trade Organization and Chinese laws and regulations, to ensure the legitimate rights and interests of all parties involved.
