By GB News (Politics) | Created at 2026-10-08 08:57:10 | Updated at 2026-10-08 09:42:31
50 minutes ago
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is expected to raise the issue of tariffs on Chinese vehicles with European Union counterparts, reports suggest.
Mr Burnham will meet with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz later today ahead of a long-awaited UK-EU summit next month.
Reports from the Telegraph claim that the European Union will stress the importance of tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
Imports from Chinese brands have become increasingly popular in recent years, with September's best-selling car being the Jaecoo 7, from the Chery International umbrella of manufacturers.
The EU currently levies a tariff of 45 per cent on imports of Chinese electric vehicles in a bid to protect Europe's automotive industry.
Legacy manufacturers have faced intense pressure from Chinese brands at a pivotal time as governments phase out sales of internal combustion engine vehicles and focus on zero emission travel.
In the last month alone, Chinese brands, including BYD, Jaecoo, Omoda and Geely, captured more than 12 per cent of the total market share.
In comparison, established Western manufacturers are being outsold and are seeing sales drop significantly, with many drivers opting for Chinese cars instead.
Reports suggest Prime Minister Andy Burnham will push for tariffs on Chinese EVs when meeting with the EU
GETTY
The EU currently imposes a 45 per cent tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, in addition to tariffs on certain manufacturers after conducting a probe.
In 2024, the EU confirmed that tariffs would be added for BYD (17 per cent), Geely Group (18.8 per cent), SAIC Group (35.3 per cent), and Tesla's Shanghai operation (7.8 per cent).
A Government spokesperson told GB News: "We always put trade measures in place independently and based only on the UK's economic interests and those of industry.
"However, Europe and the UK face many of the same challenges, which is why it is vital we protect trade flows between us.
"We want to explore deeper cooperation with the EU to unlock opportunities for industry and strengthen economic growth, while avoiding collateral damage in our shared ambition of tackling unfair trading practices globally."
If the UK were to back Europe's manufacturing sector and impose tariffs on Chinese brands, the EU could allow access to the "Made in Europe" scheme.
These measures are designed to prioritise products made in Europe, although the UK is currently not a "trusted partner", potentially putting UK businesses at risk of extra restrictions.
Stuart Masson, editorial director of The Car Expert, told GB News that Chinese brands have provided "more choice and competitive pricing" to the UK market.
Many Chinese vehicles on the market are offering impressive technology and suitable battery ranges for a cheaper upfront cost than many other competitors.
Mr Masson said the increased choice was "good news" for drivers, but warned that tariffs could lead to motorists paying more for a new vehicle.
He added: "If you know you're going to change your car anyway, exploring your options ahead of any potential tariff introduction makes sense. There's no need to panic-buy, though.
"If changing early means paying charges to end your existing finance agreement, those could outweigh any savings. The right deal is one that works for your circumstances and budget."
