WATCH OUT FOR THOSE THREE – The European Commission points the finger at three Chinese producers – BYD, Saic And Geely – guilty, according to Brussels, of not having provided sufficient information in the investigation into possible aid from the Beijing government (here to find out more). The investigation, officially launched last October, aims to verify any state subsidies which would have distorted competition in Europe and could lead to duties on electric cars produced in China by local brands.
THE CHINESE DEFENSE – Saic responded to the allegations by saying it had “fully cooperated” with the EU and provided all necessary information, in accordance with World Trade Organization and EU rules. However, “it is worth underlining that the information commercially sensitive – like the formulation of batteries – should not belong to this category,” the company underlines in a message on WeChat. No comments however from Geery and BYD. The Chinese Chamber of Commerce responds to the EU by claiming that the accusations they are unfounded, instead ensuring that companies participated in multiple rounds of questionnaires and facilitated on-site inspections. Furthermore, according to Chinese representatives, requests would be excessive, with demands that go beyond the companies’ ability to provide evidence and demands for business-sensitive supplier information.
