Country opts not to impose tariffs on EU brandy

After an eight-month investigation, China has opted not to impose provisional anti-dumping measures on imported brandy originating from the European Union, a move which experts view as a proactive step toward de-escalating tensions.

By refraining from immediate punitive actions, China is signaling its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and negotiation with the EU, setting a tone of cooperation and mutual understanding in addressing trade disputes, they added.

He Yongqian, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Commerce, said at a news conference on Thursday, that while brandy imported from the bloc involves dumping, no temporary anti-dumping measures will be imposed in this case for the time being.

In January, China launched an anti-dumping investigation into brandy imported from the EU following a request from the China Alcoholic Drinks Association on behalf of the domestic industry.

Moving forward, relevant authorities will continue to progress with on-site verifications and subsequent investigative work in accordance with the law, aiming to render an objective and impartial final ruling, He added.

This decision by the Chinese authorities stands in stark contrast to the actions taken by Brussels, which has pushed ahead with sharply raising tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles despite facing opposition within the EU, said Bai Ming, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation.

The European Commission announced on Aug 20 that it plans to slap five-year import duties of up to 36.3 percent on Chinese-made EVs after the two sides had engaged in over a dozen rounds of technical consultations since late June.

As the essence of collaboration between China and the EU lies in mutual benefit, China has dedicated itself to resolving the trade dispute through dialogue and consultation with the EU so as to avert any further escalation of trade tensions, Bai added.

The goodwill extended by China, however, should not be taken for granted. China will not hesitate to employ necessary actions to protect the legitimate rights and interests of its companies in the face of blatant protectionism, experts said.

Cui Fan, a global trade professor at the University of International Business and Economics, said it is hoped that the EU will match China's efforts and demonstrate genuine goodwill in future negotiations, so that it can provide a resolution that satisfies the interests of both sides, Cui added.

wangkeju@chinadaily.com.cn