Burnham ‘poised to join EU imposing tariffs on Chinese electric cars’ after surge in sales of ‘Temu Range Rover’
The article reports that the Government is considering tariffs on Chinese electric cars as it seeks closer trade ties with the EU. Brussels is said to want Britain to impose levies before granting it an exemption from the “Made in Europe” scheme, which could affect British car exports.
Chinese models are gaining ground in the UK: the Jaecoo 7, nicknamed the “Temu Range Rover”, recorded 10,813 deliveries in September and topped the monthly sales chart for the second time in 2026. The article says nearly a quarter of UK cars sold that month were Chinese; the EU charges tariffs of up to 45 per cent, while the Government says it has not imposed tariffs and is engaging with industry. China’s potential retaliation is a concern because it is an important market for Jaguar Land Rover.
- The Government is weighing tariffs on Chinese electric cars.
- The EU may link trade concessions to those tariffs.
- Chinese models made up nearly a quarter of September sales.
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The British Government is considering whether to impose tariffs on Chinese electric cars following their rapid growth in the UK market. The European Union is urging this action and has offered to exempt Britain from its "Made in Europe" scheme if it agrees. Without this exemption, the scheme could restrict British car manufacturers' ability to trade freely in Europe.
Chinese electric car brands have increased their market share in Britain considerably during 2026. The European Union has already introduced tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, with rates reaching as high as 45 per cent, and wants Britain to follow suit. Chinese manufacturers are therefore seeking to expand their sales in Britain before any tariffs come into effect.
The implications are considerable because Jaguar Land Rover, Britain's largest car manufacturer, depends heavily on the Chinese market for its sales. If the UK imposes tariffs, China could retaliate by making it more difficult or expensive for British carmakers to sell vehicles there. The Government has indicated it is still consulting with industry before deciding whether to proceed.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Protecting the British automotive sector from rapid disruption caused by state-subsidised Chinese manufacturers is a legitimate policy concern. Chinese firms have captured nearly a quarter of UK sales in months, and tariffs—used successfully by the EU and US—represent a proportionate response to unfair competitive pressure. Strategic alignment with Europe offers long-term economic benefits and negotiating leverage that could ultimately benefit UK exporters, justifying short-term adjustment costs.
The case against
Tariffs would raise prices for British consumers seeking affordable electric vehicles, undermining climate commitments and household finances at a time when cost-of-living pressures persist. Chinese manufacturers compete legitimately through innovation and efficiency; imposing tariffs constitutes protectionism that harms ordinary Britons rather than addressing genuine unfairness. More critically, China is vital to Jaguar Land Rover's operations and profitability—retaliation would devastate Britain's last major automotive champion. Protecting consumers and maintaining crucial trade relationships should take precedence over aligning with EU pressure on trade policy.