China's Commerce Ministry Opposes EU Demand for Voluntary Export Restrictions on Hybrid Vehicles
nashnova research
China's Commerce Ministry on September 18 rejected the EU's reported demand that China voluntarily cap hybrid-vehicle exports, calling it a serious violation of WTO rules; the trajectory of China-EU auto trade talks is now the key variable for markets.
What exactly did the EU ask for?
The Financial Times reported that the EU asked China to voluntarily cap hybrid-car sales in the EU market at roughly 15%.
If China refuses, it would face higher tariffs.
This means → the EU framed it as a binary choice: either self-impose a quota or get taxed.
How did China respond?
The Commerce Ministry used strong language, calling the proposed curb a "serious violation of WTO rules" that runs counter to market-economy principles and fair competition.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun demanded the EU "honor its commitments to market openness and free trade and provide a fair, just, non-discriminatory business environment."
In plain terms = from the Commerce Ministry to the Foreign Ministry, Beijing's line is unified: the proposal breaks the rules, and China will not accept it.
Is there still room to negotiate?
The Commerce Ministry stressed that any solution "must ensure a balance of interests" and comply with WTO rules and each side's domestic law.
But the Ministry also noted its statement was a response to media reports and did not confirm whether the EU had formally made such a demand.
This means → Beijing left an opening — if the EU denies a formal request, the negotiation channel stays open; but if the reports are accurate, the two sides are far apart.
市场有风险，内容仅供研究参考，不构成投资建议。