Chinese automakers pursue tariff exemptions following Volkswagen breakthrough in Europe
Chinese EV makers seek individual tariff deals with the EU after Volkswagen secured a reprieve. The deals replace duties with minimum prices and sales quotas.
Insights:
The European Union 
EU has officially approved a tariff exemption for the Cupra Tavascan SUV, a model produced in China 
CN by Volkswagen AG . This landmark decision, finalized on February 11, 2026, marks the first time a specific model has been granted such an exemption since the union introduced broad tariffs on electric vehicles manufactured in the Chinese market in 2024. The agreement is conditional upon the German automaker adhering to a strictly defined minimum price and a specific sales quota for the vehicle within the European market.
EU has officially approved a tariff exemption for the Cupra Tavascan SUV, a model produced in China CN by Volkswagen AG . This landmark decision, finalized on February 11, 2026, marks the first time a specific model has been granted such an exemption since the union introduced broad tariffs on electric vehicles manufactured in the Chinese market in 2024. The agreement is conditional upon the German automaker adhering to a strictly defined minimum price and a specific sales quota for the vehicle within the European market.
