As Volkswagen faces the potential closure of several German factories, officials in the state of Saxony are calling for tougher European Union tariffs on Chinese-made vehicles. The proposal aims to strengthen Europe’s negotiating position and encourage Chinese automakers to deepen cooperation with local manufacturers, including Volkswagen.
The idea was put forward by Saxony’s Economy Minister Dirk Panter in an interview with Bild. According to Panter, any decision to raise tariffs on Chinese vehicle imports should be made at the EU level rather than by individual member states, as only a coordinated European approach would have a meaningful impact.
The comments come amid growing concerns over Volkswagen’s manufacturing footprint in Germany. The automaker has previously warned that it may be forced to close up to four German factories in the coming years if alternative solutions cannot be found. One of the facilities considered at risk is located in Saxony and produces electric vehicles. Another plant in Dresden, the state capital, has already ceased operations after more than two decades of production.
Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume has suggested several possible ways to address the issue, including shifting production of China-developed models to the company’s European factories. He has also indicated that direct partnerships with Chinese automakers remain a possibility.
