Wan Gang, often regarded as the pioneer of China’s electric vehicle (EV) industry and a former minister of Science and Technology, has urged China and Europe to reinitiate talks for an investment deal amidst escalating trade disputes. His call comes in response to the European Union’s plans to impose tariffs as high as 48% on imported EVs from China, which Wan argues are politically driven and lack unanimous support within the EU.
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- Wan Gang emphasized the global integration of China’s market, suggesting resistance within the EU against erecting trade barriers.
- Germany, concerned about potential impacts on automakers like BMW and Volkswagen, is actively seeking to mitigate or prevent the proposed tariffs.
- Beijing has indicated possible retaliatory measures, including higher import taxes on EU vehicles and anti-dumping probes into European goods.
- Wan criticized the EU tariffs as politically motivated and cautioned against confrontation, advocating instead for continued negotiations.
- He highlighted the imbalance between Chinese exports and foreign investment, suggesting resuming talks on the Comprehensive Agreement on Investment as a pathway to improve relations.
- The Comprehensive Agreement on Investment has been stalled since 2021 due to geopolitical tensions and retaliatory measures between China and Europe.
- Wan expressed regret over the freeze of the agreement, emphasizing the need for its revival to enhance economic cooperation.
- Recognized as the architect of China’s EV policy, Wan’s tenure has seen China emerge as a leader in electric vehicle technology and production.
- Wan’s background includes over a decade in Germany, where he studied and worked in the automotive industry, notably with Volkswagen’s Audi brand.
- His influence remains significant in shaping China’s technological innovation strategies and navigating international trade relations.
