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UK weighs tariffs on Chinese cars amid EU trade pressure

Published 5 October 2026

Britain is facing pressure to align its trade policy on Chinese vehicle imports more closely with the European Union, as officials warn that proposed EU rules could affect British car exports. Whether the government will impose tariffs remains unresolved: a report citing unnamed senior government sources said ministers were preparing possible measures, while the government says no tariffs have been imposed. The government told Reuters it was engaging with industry to develop an approach reflecting UK interests. A separate report, citing senior government sources, said Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds was drawing up a potential tariff package and that ministers wanted any decision to reflect Britain’s national interest. That account has not been independently verified, and the government has not announced a tariff plan. The reported pressure is linked to the EU’s proposed Made in Europe rules, which would prioritize goods made in the bloc for certain subsidies, tax breaks and public procurement contracts.

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