The European Union’s anti-subsidy probe into Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) has cast a shadow over Chinese firms’ enthusiasm for investing in the European market, according to a recent survey. The study, conducted by the China Chamber of Commerce to the EU and the China Economic Information Service, highlights the dampening effect of the investigation on Chinese EV companies’ confidence, sales, and collaborative efforts in Europe.
Notably, a staggering 82% of the surveyed vehicle and industry chain firms reported that the subsidy investigation has eroded their confidence in investing in Europe in the near future. This significant drop in confidence underscores the potential impact of the EU’s actions on the willingness of Chinese companies to commit resources and capital to the European market.
Furthermore, the survey findings revealed that 73% of respondents experienced a decline in sales in the European market due to the investigation. This decline in sales suggests that the probe has directly impacted the performance and revenue streams of Chinese EV firms operating in Europe, potentially hindering their growth and expansion plans in the region.
The survey also shed light on the broader consequences of the EU’s probe, with a clear majority of companies reporting delays or scaling back of collaborations with European partners, such as distributors and leasing companies. Additionally, the investigation has reportedly hurt the image of Chinese EV brands in Europe, making it more challenging for these companies to attract top European talent.
Despite the challenges posed by the subsidy probe, the survey found that Chinese EV makers remain committed to Europe as a key strategic market and plan to expand their presence there. A majority of the surveyed companies expressed intentions to establish factories in Europe within the next five years, indicating a long-term commitment to the region.
However, the report cautioned that “while increasing localisation in Europe remains a long-term strategic goal for these companies, the EU’s actions have clearly dampened enthusiasm for such efforts.” This observation highlights the potential consequences of the EU’s investigation of the investment decisions and growth strategies of Chinese EV firms in the European market.
The findings of the survey come as Chinese automakers have urged Beijing to hike tariffs on imported European gasoline-powered cars in retaliation for the EU’s actions, according to a report by the state-backed Global Times. This development suggests the potential for escalating trade tensions between China and the EU over the subsidy probe and its implications for the automotive industry.
As the EU and Chinese EV firms navigate the complexities of this situation, the survey underscores the need for careful consideration of the potential implications on investment, collaboration, and the overall competitiveness of the European EV market.