The European Union's (EU) tariff hikes on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) violate the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO) but will not affect China's economic growth or its rising influence in the global market, said a Tajik economist.
The European Commission announced Friday that it passed a vote to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese EVs, sparking criticism from several European countries and auto industry groups who warn the move could boomerang against the EU competitiveness.
In an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN), Rahmon Ulmasov, a professor at the Russian-Tajik (Slavonic) University, criticized the EU's decision, which he said restricts free trade.
"Firstly, the EU's imposition of tariffs on Chinese EVs violates the WTO rules. Secondly, the development of free trade should not be constrained by any legal mandates or resolutions," he said.
"Chinese manufacturers entered the markets of Europe and the United States a long time ago, and this will continue to be the norm. The reason is simple: China has the capability to mass-produce cost-effective products that consumers want and can afford," he said.
In his view, the tariffs are rooted in shortsightedness that misplaces blame on China for European economic woes.
"Moreover, Europe is facing a shrinking labor force and severe population issues, which is leading them to shift towards the Chinese market. Therefore, the measures attempting to block Chinese goods are only temporary solutions," said Ulmasov.
Moreover, he stressed, attempts to contain the development of China's economic prowess are doomed to failure.
"Chinese investors have a wide range of investment opportunities in Africa, Central Asia, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Therefore, even if the EU takes measures now, it will not affect China's economic growth or its growing influence in global economic development," said Ulmasov.
EU tariff hikes on Chinese EVs violate WTO rules: expert
EU tariff hikes on Chinese EVs violate WTO rules: expert
EU tariff hikes on Chinese EVs violate WTO rules: expert
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
