UK weighs tariffs on Chinese electric cars to protect EU supply ties
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds evaluates import duties of up to 45% as Brussels threatens to exclude British carmakers from European manufacturing programs.
MOBy Mina Okoro, Supply chain editor··Updated October 6, 2026·4 min read
ShareLinkedInXWhatsAppEmailA factory worker handles an electric vehicle battery pack on an automobile assembly line. (AI-generated image)
The United Kingdom government confirmed Oct. 5 it is reviewing import duties on Chinese electric vehicles, following pressure from European trade officials to match the European Union's border measures.
A Department for Business and Trade spokesperson said the government had imposed no new tariffs yet, but remains in discussions with domestic automakers over protecting British commercial interests.
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Supply chain editor — Mina Okoro builds the impact maps that connect East Asian developments to buyers in North America and Europe, and edits the Asia Compare desk.