China warns UK against following EU tariffs on Chinese EVs as trade tensions escalate
By Eve
China's Ministry of Commerce warned on 19 October it would retaliate if the UK imposes tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, following reports the EU has given Britain an ultimatum to levy tariffs or lose Made In Europe benefits under the proposed Industrial Accelerator Act. UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds told a government committee on 20 October that tariff decisions remain under close review. Chinese brands captured 23% of the UK market in September, with BYD becoming the second best selling brand.
Why it matters
Any UK tariffs on Chinese EVs could reshape procurement costs and supplier strategies for charge point operators, as Chinese brands now hold nearly a quarter of the UK market and drive significant charging infrastructure demand. Trade restrictions may also affect the economics of charging networks built around Chinese vehicle partnerships.
Source
- Original title
- “China threatens retaliation if UK matches EU on tariffs”
- Published
- 23 October 2026
In this story
- Topic
- Policy & Market
- Places
- United Kingdom · European Union · China
- Tags
- China · United Kingdom · European Union
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