# UK Weighs Tariffs on Chinese EVs

- Topic: business
- Source: [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/08/autos-china-evs-uk-tariffs-hybrid-cars.html)
- Published: 2026-10-08
- Original: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/08/autos-china-evs-uk-tariffs-hybrid-cars.html
- Language: en
- Image: https://image.cnbcfm.com/api/v1/image/108373886-1791368699021-gettyimages-2244760464-CHINA_BYD.jpeg?v=1791369118&w=1920&h=1080

## At a glance

- Chinese EVs now hold 28.1% of UK registrations, up sharply from 12.9% in 2025.
- UK levies only a 10% import duty on Chinese EVs, far lower than the EU’s 35.3% manufacturer‑specific tariffs.
- UK business minister Jonathan Reynolds is weighing matching EU tariffs to avoid “Made in Europe” trade barriers.
- Analysts warn tariffs on battery‑electric models alone would miss the surge in hybrid sales and overseas‑built vehicles.

## Sources

- [CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/08/autos-china-evs-uk-tariffs-hybrid-cars.html)

## The story

Britain is debating whether to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles as it seeks to balance post‑Brexit ties with the EU and protect domestic industry. Chinese automakers have captured 28.1% of the UK market by the end of August, up from 12.9% a year earlier, with hybrids accounting for the bulk of the growth. The UK currently levies only a 10% import duty on Chinese EVs, while the EU imposes up to 35.3% manufacturer‑specific duties. A UK business minister has said the government is considering matching EU tariffs to avoid “Made in Europe” barriers that could hurt UK exporters. Beijing has warned it will respond to any discriminatory measures. Analysts argue that tariffs on battery‑electric vehicles alone would not curb the rise of hybrids or vehicles built outside China. They recommend a comprehensive approach that includes incentives for local production, battery cost reductions, and infrastructure investment. The decision will shape the UK’s trade relationship with both China and the EU and could trigger retaliatory actions from Beijing.

> Summary by Daily Read Bytes. [Read the original source](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/10/08/autos-china-evs-uk-tariffs-hybrid-cars.html)