Businesses protest EU's protectionism

'Unfair competition' refuted, as industry insiders say move violates WTO rules

Chinese companies have expressed deep concerns over rising protectionism in the European Union, as the bloc ramps up its anti-subsidy probes targeting Chinese companies, especially those making clean energy products.

News site Politico reported that the European Commission is expected to inform Chinese EV makers of the duties they would face by the end of next week. The commission launched investigations last October into the "suspected unfair state subsidies" of Chinese EVs.

The China Chamber of Commerce to the EU, or CCCEU, said on Thursday that more than 40 Chinese companies operating across Europe have voiced grave concerns about the EU's escalating protectionism.