Tariffs, Anti-CCP Bills Signal Increased Pushback Against CCP Aggression

El Primer Ministro de España visita China en medio de una disputa comercial

September 9, 2024 TruthUSA

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez emphasized the need for a “fair trade order” on Monday during his visit to China, focusing on strengthening ties with the economic powerhouse despite tensions between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the European Union (EU).

Sánchez’s visit to China, which began on Sunday, included meetings with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, ceremonial legislature head Zhao Leji, and CCP leader Xi Jinping on Monday.

As part of his itinerary, Sánchez participated in a business forum for Spanish and Chinese companies on Monday and is scheduled to attend additional business events and the inauguration of a Cervantes Institute, which promotes Spanish language and culture, before departing on Wednesday.

This marks Sánchez’s second official trip to China in less than 18 months, following his visit in March 2023 during Spain’s EU presidency.

On the other hand, the EU is finalizing rules for additional tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), with varying rates for different manufacturers.

The EU’s move to impose these tariffs has not been well-received by the CCP, which argues that the restrictions are necessary to maintain fair competition in the market and prevent price distortions caused by government subsidies in China.

Following the EU’s draft rate announcement, China retaliated with an investigation into EU dairy products in a tit-for-tat response.

In a similar fashion, China initiated an investigation into European pork products when the EU proposed higher tariffs on Chinese EVs in June.

The decision on the increased tariffs is scheduled for October, with CCP officials engaging with automakers and industry groups in preparation for the upcoming vote.

Despite endorsing the tariffs, Spain welcomed the inauguration of Chery’s first plant in Barcelona, a joint venture between Spanish company Ebro-EV Motors and the Chinese automaker, announced prior to the tariff escalations.

Furthermore, both the United States and Canada have implemented tariffs on Chinese EVs, with Washington set to raise tariffs on Chinese-made EVs from 25 percent to 100 percent as a precautionary measure.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced plans for 100 percent tariffs on Chinese EVs and 25 percent tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum products starting in October to ensure equitable competition within Canada’s EV market.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai commended Canada’s decision as a crucial step toward promoting fair competition.

Dorothy Li and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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