The European Union has recently decided to impose provisional extra tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles as part of a broader effort to counter what they claim are market distortions caused by Beijing. This move follows similar actions by the United States, Turkey, Brazil, India, and Canada, all introducing trade barriers on Chinese electric cars. Additionally, countries in Southeast Asia like Thailand and Indonesia are considering anti-dumping measures against various Chinese goods.
Despite the economic impact, the rise in tariffs reflects a global trend of increased protectionism against Chinese exports. Countries in the Global South, traditionally seen as allies of China, are also adopting trade measures to safeguard their own interests. This shifting landscape highlights the complexities of trade relations in a multipolar world.
While the US reinforces its alliances in East Asia to counter China, Beijing’s reluctance to formal alliances may hinder its efforts to prevent trade decoupling. The evolving dynamics between major powers underscore the fluidity of the international system and the intricate balance of geopolitical interests.
Emanuele Scimia is an independent journalist and foreign affairs analyst