China: EU’s EV probe erodes confidence in Italy investments

Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao expressed concern that the European Union’s (EU) investigation into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) is undermining Chinese automakers’ confidence in investing in Italy.

During a meeting with Italian Economic Development Minister Adolfo Urso in Rome, Wang highlighted the strong foundation for collaboration between the Chinese and Italian automotive sectors but warned that the EU probe could damage long-term investment prospects.

China aims to boost mutual investment in the auto industry with Italy, but Wang emphasised that additional tariffs on Chinese EVs would not be in Italy’s best interest.

The comments come ahead of a vote on new tariffs, with Italy seeking a negotiated solution to the dispute. Wang is also scheduled to meet with EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis later this week to discuss the case.