China, EU reach consensus on price undertaking guidance for EV exports

China's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) briefed the public on the latest progress regarding consultations between China and the European Union (EU) concerning the anti-subsidy case involving Chinese electric vehicles. In a statement released on Monday afternoon, the ministry noted that both sides have engaged in multiple rounds of discussions characterized by mutual respect to implement the consensus reached during the China-EU leaders' meeting and to seek a proper resolution to the trade friction.

According to the briefing, the parties have reached a consensus on the necessity of providing general guidance on price undertakings for Chinese exporters of battery electric vehicles to the European market. This move is intended to allow Chinese firms to address relevant concerns through more practical and targeted measures while remaining strictly aligned with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

Following the discussions, the European side will issue a formal guidance document on the submission of price undertaking applications. In this upcoming document, the EU will reaffirm its commitment to the principle of non-discrimination, applying the same legal standards to all applications in accordance with WTO regulations and ensuring that all assessments are conducted in an objective and impartial manner.

The MOC emphasized that these developments reflect the spirit of dialogue and the positive outcomes of recent bilateral negotiations. The statement further asserted that China and the EU possess both the capability and the willingness to resolve differences through consultation within the WTO framework. Such efforts are seen as vital for maintaining the stability of the automotive industrial and supply chains both regionally and globally.

The ministry concluded that the successful handling of this case is not only beneficial for the healthy development of China-EU economic and trade relations but also serves to uphold a rules-based international trading order.