Beijing, 15 February 2025
On February 14, Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao held a video conference with Ola Källenius, the President of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association and Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group. They exchanged views on issues such as the EU’s anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles and cooperation between Chinese and European automotive industries.
Wang Wentao stated that cooperation between Chinese and the European automotive industries enjoys a solid foundation and broad prospects. China encourages European automakers including Mercedes-Benz Group to expand investment in China and deepen their presence in the Chinese market. Properly resolving the EU’s anti-subsidy case regarding Chinese EVs is in line with the interests of both sides and the general expectations of the industry. It is hoped that the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association and Mercedes-Benz Group will continue to play an active role in promoting the European Commission to make a political decision as soon as possible. Based on the progress made in the multiple rounds of consultations between the two sides, the European Commission should meet China halfway and reach a constructive solution acceptable to both parties as early as possible.
Ola Källenius noted that the European automotive industry including Mercedes-Benz Group pays great attention to the EU-China EV case and supports and expects both sides to resolve differences through dialogue and consultations as soon as possible. Mercedes-Benz Group will uphold its long-term commitment to the Chinese market and further deepen cooperation with China.
Source – Ministry of Commerce of China