
China has expressed deep concerns over an investigation launched by the European Commission into the alleged dumping of cheap Chinese car tires in the European market. The probe follows complaints from the European tire industry about Chinese manufacturers.
A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Commerce stated on Thursday that Brussels should engage in dialogue with China regarding the alleged dumping practices. The ministry also emphasized that China will defend the interests and rights of its companies.
The European Commission announced the investigation last week, examining whether measures such as high tariffs on Chinese tires are necessary to protect the European tire industry. Major European producers include Germany's Continental, France's Michelin, and Italy's Pirelli.
The Commission aims to conclude the investigation within 14 months. If dumping practices harming European companies are confirmed, provisional countermeasures could be implemented within eight months.
The EU market for car and light truck tires was valued at over €18 billion last year, supporting around 75,000 jobs across 14 member states. The EU already has anti-dumping measures in place for Chinese truck and bus tires.