The EU has commenced provisional tariffs of up to 37.6% on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs), citing unfair subsidies that distort market competition. China has urged the EU to intensify negotiations to avoid a potential trade war, expressing a preference for dialogue over retaliation, although it has launched anti-dumping investigations into European pork and brandy imports. European automakers and business leaders, including Volkswagen and BMW, have criticized the tariffs, warning they may harm the European auto industry and consumer interests. EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis defended the tariffs as compliant with WTO rules and aimed at ensuring fair competition, noting ongoing consultations with China. Meanwhile, the China Chamber of Commerce to the EU has expressed disappointment and urged for infrastructural improvements over protectionist measures. Both sides have a four-month window to reach a mutually beneficial solution before the tariffs become definitive for five years.