The European Commission has imposed provisional tariffs ranging up to 37.6% on electric vehicle (EV) imports from China, citing concerns over state subsidies that give Chinese automakers an unfair advantage. These duties, which affect major Chinese firms like BYD, Geely, and SAIC, will be in place for up to four months pending the completion of an anti-subsidy investigation. European automakers, including Volkswagen and BMW, have criticized the move, warning of potential retaliation from China that could harm the European auto industry. The German auto association VDA and other experts argue that the tariffs will backfire, undermining free trade principles and potentially slowing down the EU's green transition. The tariffs have stirred fears of a broader trade conflict, with China potentially targeting European exports such as pork and dairy in response. The situation underscores the growing global tensions over trade and clean energy industries.