On September 5, 2023, at the IAA 2023 auto show in Munich, visitors examined vehicles from the Chinese automaker BYD. During the same week, China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao engaged with Antonio Tajani, Italy's deputy prime minister and foreign minister, to address the European Union's (EU) anti-subsidy investigation targeting China’s electric vehicles (EVs). Wang emphasized the necessity for the European Commission (EC) to engage in dialogue and consultations to effectively resolve economic and trade differences between China and the EU. He expressed disappointment over the EC's swift rejection of a comprehensive proposal from China aimed at easing tensions, indicating a lack of willingness to negotiate.

Wang also held discussions with Italy's Industry Minister Adolfo Urso and Roberto Vavassori, the president of Italy's automotive association, to garner support for China's stance. Analysts from China noted that Wang's meetings with key EU officials underscore China's commitment to resolving the EV tariff dispute through constructive conversation rather than unilateral measures. The upcoming discussions between Wang and EC Executive Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis are anticipated to provide an opportunity to mitigate potential escalations in trade conflict.

Experts highlight that the EU's current approach towards tariffs could disadvantage its member countries. They urge for consensus to prevent detrimental outcomes for both parties involved. Recent criticism directed at the EC from China's Ministry of Commerce underscores China's resolve to protect its companies' interests against what they perceive as insincere actions from the EU.

Amid this backdrop, Spain has revised its previous support for EC tariff plans, signaling a shift in stance, while Germany is promoting opposition among EU members towards these tariffs. Analysts advocate for continued dialogue as the only effective method to resolve trade disputes, warning against the temptation of protectionism. Despite the EU's more aggressive protectionist strategies, data reveals growing economic interdependence between China and the EU, suggesting mutual benefits that could arise from continued trade cooperation.