Increase in customs duties on Chinese cars: Norway opposes it
The decision of the European Union
The European Union recently decided to increase customs duties on Chinese cars. This decision aims to reduce imports of electric vehicles from China. The goal is to penalize Chinese manufacturers, accused of benefiting from government subsidies, which would constitute unfair competition for European and American manufacturers.
Norway takes a different path
However, Norway has chosen not to follow this path. The country, although located in Europe, is not officially part of the European Union and has a particularly developed electric market. Norwegian Finance Minister Trygve Slagsvold Vedum declared that Norway would not increase customs duties on Chinese electric cars, considering this measure “neither relevant nor desirable” for the country.
A specific Norwegian market
The Norwegian car market is unique. Last year, 24% of the cars on the road were electric, and 80% of the vehicles sold in 2022 were emission-free. Among these vehicles, 12% were from Chinese brands. This figure includes Polestar, but not Volvo, although both belong to the Chinese group Geely. This shows the importance of Asian cars in this market.
Chinese manufacturers look to Norway
Many Chinese manufacturers choose to launch their models in Norway before tackling the rest of Europe. For example, brands like MG, BYD, Nio, and Xpeng all have ambitions in Europe and consider Norway a strategic gateway. Some brands, almost unknown elsewhere, such as Voyah, a subsidiary of Dongfeng, find opportunities in this favorable market.
Implications for the European market
The European Union will apply an increase in customs duties of 38% on Chinese electric cars, a measure that will take effect next July 4. However, Norway, with its different approach, could attract more Asian manufacturers, thus becoming a key player for these manufacturers in Europe.