Consumers in Brussels, the capital of Belgium and headquarters of the European Union (EU), are raising concerns over the EU's anti-subsidy probe into Chinese electric vehicles (EV), saying that additional tariffs could push up their financial burden and restrict their freedom of choice.
The EU's investigation into Chinese EVs is nearing its one-year mark since its launch last October, with the bloc's 27 member states poised to cast their final votes on the matter.
As the impending decision draws near, some car owners in Brussels have conveyed their worries that the proposed final duties on Chinese EVs could infringe upon consumers' rights to make choices.
"The Chinese electric vehicles, from my experience, have achieved very high, even the highest levels of comfort and quality and driving experience as well," said a resident named Bokri.
He said that China's predominance in the electric vehicle market is not primarily driven by subsidies, a practice that is widespread globally. Instead, he stressed the competitive edge of Chinese automakers in terms of production capacity, cost efficiency, and performance innovation.
Another European resident also voiced opposition to the EU's potential tariffs, emphasizing the importance of competition and a level playing field in the EV sector.
"I'd like to bring an electric car from China, the U.S., Europe, all around the world, because there will be competition. And for me, I think that's fine if the electric cars from China come in. I think the European Union should also see the same when they are trading with the U.S. They have to trade with China the same because finally this is a benefit for the world, for the weather [climate], for us, for the people. It's not about one country, one nation," said a resident named Hassan.
In light of mounting opposition from consumers, the EU faces a crucial decision that could shape the future of its electric vehicle market.
On July 4, the European Commission introduced provisional additional tariffs of up to 37.6 percent on Chinese EV makers, with a four-month window.
The tariffs, widely criticized as protectionist, have prompted objections from China and sparked widespread concerns over rising costs for consumers in the EU and global efforts towards green transitions.
Belgian consumers oppose EU's anti-subsidy probe into Chinese EVs
Macao has been emerging as a global hub for conventions and exhibitions in recent years by exploring the enormous opportunities in the sector, driving the region to advance its economic diversification and embrace a brighter future.
Macao has received many awards this year, such as the Best Convention City (Asia) and the Best BT-MICE City, showcasing the recognition for and influence of Macao's exhibition industry.
More than 1,000 electronic game enthusiasts from all over the world gathered recently in Macao to participate in a esports themed event.
Su Zhili, organizer of the event, said that Macao's rich experience in hosting large-scale events, coupled with its good infrastructure, has driven him to choose the region as an ideal destination to hold such an activity.
"Macao has held many similar large-scale events. It has rich experience, and the facilities at the venue are relatively mature, so we can start our work comfortably," said Su.
During the first three quarters of 2024, Macao held more than 1,000 conferences and exhibitions in total.
"We will invite more professional, special conferences to be held in Macao and also cultivate more exhibition brands with international influence in Macao, so as to promote Macao's exhibitions to be more market-oriented, professional, international, digital and greener from various aspects. This is our goal," said Elaine Wong, member of the Macao Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute.
In addition, multiple large exhibitions and conferences, such as the Macao International Trade and Investment fair, the Macao Franchise Expo, and the International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum, are held regularly in Macao.
With the introduction of a series of policies and measures to facilitate the exchanges between the mainland and Macao, as well as the construction and development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Macao's convention and exhibition industry will embrace more opportunities for development in the foreseeable future.
"We have such a good industrial base in the Greater Bay Area. The mode of 'Convention and Exhibition + Industry' not only integrates the industries of Macao, but also the industries of the Greater Bay Area. In addition, Macao actively integrates into the national development and plays a role in the Belt and Road. Why are we so confident in Macao's convention and exhibition sector? Because it is backed by the motherland, and the country gives Macao great support," said Alan Ho, chairman of the Macao Association of Convention, Exhibition and Tourism Sectors.
Macao emerges as global hub for conventions and exhibitions, driving economic diversification and international recognition
