Viktor Orban and Xi Jinping. Foto: Rao Aimin
Hungary has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the European Union’s imposition of sanctions on Chinese electric vehicle makers, calling the measures “cruel” and counterproductive. Hungarian Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Péter Szijjártó said such actions could seriously damage economic relations between the EU and China, as well as undermine efforts to globally combat climate change.
The Hungarian government believes that sanctions against Chinese companies are overly strict and unfair. Szijjártó noted that Chinese electric vehicle makers play an important role in the development of clean transport and that imposing restrictions on them could slow down Europe’s transition to sustainable energy. “Punishing Chinese companies for their success in producing electric vehicles is an unwise move and runs counter to our own goals to reduce carbon emissions,” Szijjártó said.
The EU’s decision to impose sanctions was motivated by concerns that Chinese manufacturers are receiving unfair government subsidies, allowing them to sell electric cars at reduced prices and squeeze out European competitors. However, Hungary, which is one of the main recipients of Chinese investment in Central Europe, believes that such measures could lead to trade wars and negatively affect economic cooperation between the regions.
Szijjártó also emphasized the importance of the strategic partnership between Hungary and China, noting that Chinese investment contributes to job creation and infrastructure development in the country. “We must not jeopardize our long-term economic interests because of temporary differences,” the minister added.
Hungary’s stance has sparked controversy among other EU members, many of whom support a tough approach to trade policy with China. Nevertheless, the Hungarian authorities intend to continue to advocate for a review of the sanctions policy and the search for more balanced solutions.
European sanctions against Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers are part of a broader strategy to protect the domestic market from unfair competition. However, differences among EU member states on this issue highlight the difficulty of reaching consensus in the face of global economic competition and geopolitical instability.
