China has called on France to facilitate a resolution that would be amicable to both Chinese and European electric vehicle (EV) sectors, reported Reuters.

This request comes as tensions escalate over the European Union's imposition of tariffs on Chinese-made battery EVs, following an anti-subsidy investigation last year.

Chinese commerce minister Wang Wentao, in discussions with France's junior trade minister Sophie Primas, highlighted the EU's investigation as a significant barrier that has adversely affected the cooperation between China and EU's automotive industries.

Wang emphasised the need for Paris to adopt "an active role" in persuading the EU to reconsider its stance on Chinese EVs.

Despite the ongoing trade frictions, Primas assured that the EU aims to maintain trade relations with China without compromising on critical issues.

"We will continue to defend fairer competition that benefits everyone," her press office stated.

Additionally, Wang expressed a willingness to consider the propositions of French brandy producers.

Sophie Primas is currently on a three-day visit to Shanghai, aiming to contest China's import duties on French brandy, which Paris deems political and unjustified.

Wang informed Primas that Beijing’s trade investigations into EU brandy, pork, and dairy products were initiated based on domestic industry requests and adhered to World Trade Organization rules. In contrast, he described the EU's approach to its EV probe as “rash.”

Also, China has instructed its auto manufacturers to halt significant investments in European Union (EU) countries that impose additional tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles.

This directive comes in response to new EU tariffs of up to 45.3%, which were enacted following a year-long investigation.

Wang added: "China will continue to conduct investigations in strict accordance with the law, safeguard the legitimate rights of enterprises of EU member states, including France, and make rulings based on facts and evidence."

"China requests France to mediate with EU for favourable EV trade resolution" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.

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