BEIJING, Sept. 18 (Xinhua) -- China steadfastly opposes the so-called voluntary restrictions on China's hybrid vehicle exports to Europe, as they gravely violate the World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and run counter to market economy rules and the principle of fair competition, a Ministry of Commerce spokesperson said on Friday.
The spokesperson made the remarks in response to recent media reports that the European Union (EU) wants China to voluntarily restrict exports of hybrid vehicles to Europe, and that China could otherwise face higher tariffs.
"These so-called voluntary export restrictions seriously violate WTO rules and run counter to the laws of the market economy and the principle of fair competition. China firmly opposes this," the spokesperson said.
"China's position is consistent. Any solution between China and the EU must ensure a balance of interests, comply with WTO rules and their respective domestic laws, and fully accommodate the interests of industries on both sides," the spokesperson added. ■
