Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao Meets Mercedes Chairman Koch-Larson, Discusses Sino-Europe Automotive Industry Cooperation

IT April 24 report, on April 23, Wang Wentao, Minister of Commerce, met with Klaus Schmalfeld, Chairman of the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association and Chairman of Daimler AG. The two sides exchanged views on...Cooperation between China and Europe in the automotive industry; EU trade and economic restrictive measures against Chinaand other issues for discussion.

According to the announcement reported by IT Home, Wang Wentao stated that the current international economic and trade landscape is undergoing profound restructuring, with increasing instability and uncertainty.The automobile industry is also undergoing transformation.This year marks the opening year of the 14th Five-Year Plan. China will continue to expand high-level opening-up, accelerate the development of new quality productive forces, and promote the upgrading, intelligence, and green development of industries. This will provide stable expectations and broad opportunities for foreign enterprises such as Mercedes-Benz to take root in China and participate in global competition.

Wang Wentao emphasized that the proper resolution of the electric vehicle case between China and Europe sends a clear signal to the world that both sides are willing and capable of resolving differences through dialogue. Recently, the EU has introduced a series of trade restriction measures with a protectionist tinge, causing substantial damage to Sino-European trade relations. China has expressed serious concern and will firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.Hope that the Mercedes-Benz Group and the European automotive industry speak out actively.Calling on the European side to adjust inappropriate provisions and create a fair, just, and non-discriminatory market environment for China-EU business cooperation.

Kang Linsong stated that China's 14th Five-Year Plan provides strategic opportunities for Daimler Group. Daimler will adhere to the long-term approach, and deepen its commitment to the Chinese market.Continue to increase investment in Chinaand deepen innovation cooperation with Chinese partners in areas such as vehicle electrification and intelligentization to achieve the goal of “More China, for the World.” The European automotive industry values cooperation with China and remains committed to playing a positive role in supporting dialogue and consultations between Europe and China to resolve trade and economic frictions.