EU and China reach agreement to limit Chinese hybrid vehicle imports

The European Commission and China have announced an agreement aimed at limiting the import of Chinese hybrid vehicles into the European Union. While the official joint statement released during a meeting in Beijing does not specify exact figures, reports indicate a proposed cap of 350,000 vehicles for the first year, with a 6% annual increase over a four-year period.

This measure is intended to curb the rapid growth of Chinese imports, which were projected to reach nearly 800,000 units by 2026. The agreement follows discussions between Maroš Šefčovič for the Commission and Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao. To comply with World Trade Organization rules, the quotas may be applied to other countries as well, functioning as a safeguard measure.

Industry leaders, including Emilio Herrera, president of Kia Iberia, have noted that these developments signal a broader readjustment of European regulations through 2035. The move is seen as an effort by the EU to respond to increasing competition from Chinese manufacturers within the European automotive market.