-
Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao is in Europe to negotiate against proposed EU tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) amid rising trade tensions. With a critical vote on September 25, Wang's efforts face challenges as EU countries show mixed support for the tariffs, which could reach up to 35.3%.
-
The European Union has revised its tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) imported from China, imposing a 9% tariff on Tesla while other manufacturers face rates up to 36.3%. This decision follows an investigation into alleged unfair subsidies benefiting Chinese automakers. The new tariffs will take effect by the end of October 2024.
-
As of September 1, 2024, EU airports have reinstated the 100ml limit on liquids in hand luggage due to technical issues with new scanning technology. This decision affects airports in several EU countries and follows similar restrictions in the UK earlier this summer.
-
Mario Draghi's recent report urges the EU to invest €800 billion annually to address stagnation and enhance competitiveness against the US and China. Highlighting Europe's innovation gap, Draghi emphasizes the need for a unified approach to economic and defense strategies amid rising global tensions.
-
The UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is investigating Ticketmaster's handling of Oasis concert ticket sales, focusing on the controversial dynamic pricing model that led to significant price increases. Fans reported prices soaring from £148.50 to £355.20, prompting widespread complaints and calls for regulatory action.
-
Following President Macron's appointment of Michel Barnier as prime minister, widespread protests erupted across France. The left-wing coalition, led by France Unbowed, accused Macron of undermining democracy after ignoring the election results that favored their alliance. Barnier faces significant challenges in forming a government amid public discontent.
-
The European Court of Justice has upheld a 2016 ruling requiring Apple to repay €13 billion in illegal tax benefits received from Ireland. This decision marks a significant victory for EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager, reinforcing the EU's stance against preferential tax arrangements for multinationals. The ruling concludes a lengthy legal battle that began in 2014.
-
Hungary's government is escalating tensions with the EU over a €200 million fine for breaching asylum laws. The country plans to offer asylum-seekers free travel to Brussels, aiming to pressure the EU to drop the fines. This follows a European Court of Justice ruling mandating compliance with EU asylum regulations.
-
The European Court of Justice upheld a ruling that Ireland granted Apple illegal tax benefits, ordering the company to repay €13 billion. This decision has significant implications for Ireland's economy and its relationship with multinational corporations, as the funds are now in an escrow account pending distribution.
-
Hungary's MOL has reached a deal to transport Russian oil through Ukraine, circumventing a Ukrainian ban on Lukoil products. This arrangement, supported by Slovakia, raises concerns about EU sanctions and energy security amid ongoing tensions from the Ukraine conflict.
-
Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico is facing increasing criticism for his government's sweeping reforms aimed at dismantling anti-corruption institutions. Following an assassination attempt in May, Fico has intensified actions against perceived political enemies, raising concerns about the erosion of democratic norms in Slovakia. Protests have erupted in response to these changes.
-
The Liberal Democrats are advocating for a youth mobility scheme to allow UK citizens aged 18-35 to work and travel freely in EU countries. This proposal follows Labour leader Keir Starmer's cautious approach to EU relations, raising concerns among EU officials about the UK's commitment to post-Brexit collaboration.
-
The Biden administration has filed to restore federal protections for gray wolves, aiming to resume hunting in the Great Lakes region after a court-ordered halt. This move follows years of political conflict over wolf management and population recovery efforts across the U.S.
-
The IMF has indefinitely postponed its planned mission to Moscow to review the Russian economy, following backlash from European allies. The decision comes amid concerns that the visit could lend legitimacy to Russia post-invasion of Ukraine. The IMF aims to gather more data for a thorough analysis before proceeding.
-
Google is embroiled in multiple antitrust cases in the EU and US, with recent court rulings impacting its advertising practices. The EU's General Court annulled a €1.5 billion fine while the US Justice Department seeks to break up Google's ad tech business, alleging monopolistic practices.
-
The Dutch government, led by Geert Wilders' far-right party, has requested an opt-out from EU asylum rules, aiming for stricter immigration policies. This move faces significant opposition from the EU and raises concerns about its feasibility and implications for other member states.