Story perspectives

Expert Critiques EU's Minimum Price on Chinese Electric Cars

1/15/2026

40 5

Summary

Story summary

Prof. Dr. Julian Hinz of the Kiel Institute criticized the European Commission's decision to implement minimum import prices for Chinese electric cars.
He argues the policy fails to address surplus supply and risks encouraging overcapacity.
Hinz calls the minimum price bureaucratic, inviting lobbying and negotiations.
He notes tariffs raise government revenue, whereas a minimum price would shift profits to Chinese manufacturers.
He urges the EU to use transparent, market-based instruments instead.

1 of 1

Story summary

Prof. Dr. Julian Hinz of the Kiel Institute criticized the European Commission's decision to implement minimum import prices for Chinese electric cars.
He argues the policy fails to address surplus supply and risks encouraging overcapacity.
Hinz calls the minimum price bureaucratic, inviting lobbying and negotiations.
He notes tariffs raise government revenue, whereas a minimum price would shift profits to Chinese manufacturers.
He urges the EU to use transparent, market-based instruments instead.