BMW CEO Milan Nedeljkovic stated that the pricing of certain Chinese vehicles in Europe is commercially inexplicable. He warned that these low prices could fuel protectionist sentiments within the European market.
Despite his concerns, Nedeljkovic opposes the imposition of additional tariffs, arguing that they represent excessive market interference. He advocates for voluntary pricing agreements to resolve trade disputes rather than escalating tensions through protectionist measures.
The company's stance is driven by its own business interests, as the electric MINI is manufactured in China for export to Europe. Since October 2024, the EU has imposed anti-subsidy duties on Chinese-made EVs, with BMW's MINI facing a total tariff burden of approximately 31 percent.
BMW is currently negotiating with the European Commission to secure a tariff exemption through a price commitment scheme. Meanwhile, data shows that Chinese brands continue to gain market share in Europe by localizing production and adjusting pricing strategies despite the new trade barriers.
