Mercedes-Benz CEO urges EU to delay tariffs on Chinese EVs

BERLIN, Oct. 21 (Xinhua) -- German carmaker Mercedes-Benz has reiterated its opposition to the European Union's (EU) planned tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), urging a delay in implementing these highly controversial measures to avoid harming interests of both sides.

"We need more free trade, not additional barriers," Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kaellenius told German media outlet Bild on Monday. He emphasized that the proposed tariffs would fail to enhance the EU's global competitiveness, which is crucial for the bloc's successful transformation and long-term economic growth.