Drivers with older cars could face 20% rise in costs if UK slaps tariffs on China

A motoring expert has urged the Government to avoid putting a tariff on , warning that it could result in for . As a growing number of enter new markets across Europe, a significant amount of countries are introducing tariffs in a bid to protect local industry.

Whilst the UK has yet to announce such measures, William Fletcher MBE, Chief Executive of , warned that a tariff would also likely affect spare parts, meaning that repair bills may also increase. He warned: "Tariff-driven supply constraints could raise repair costs by up to 20%, affecting owners of older vehicles most acutely. Economists also caution that global trade tensions may reduce UK GDP by 0.1-0.2% in 2025, potentially adding inflationary pressure to household budgets."

Whilst President Trump's 25 % tariff on all imported vehicles has caused some motoring experts to question whether similar taxes are required in the UK, a considerable number of countries have imposed a similar restriction exclusively on Chinese-made electric cars.

Under the previous Biden Administration, the US Government announced a 100% tariff on Chinese EVs, with Canada quickly imposing a similar measure.

The European Union has also introduced a Chinese car tariff, with companies subject to different charges based on how much of the brand is owned by the country's Government.

Nevertheless, without a tariff in place, William highlighted that the Chinese car industry would consider the UK as an even larger target for their models.

He added: "These measures make it economically unfeasible for Chinese automakers to sell into the US market at competitive prices. Meaning the UK could be an attractive destination for several reasons.

"Unlike the EU, which has imposed provisional tariffs of up to 45% on Chinese EVs (on top of a standard 10% duty), the UK has not yet followed suit with similar measures as of early 2025."

During 2024, China produced more than 31 million vehicles - higher than any other country in the world. Of those, nearly six million were exported to foreign markets, including the UK.

According to figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), in the first three months of 2025, MG sold 24,641 cars, whereas BYD sold a further 9,271 and JAECOO sold 3,235.

Many UK drivers choose Chinese-made cars because they offer sophisticated electric powertrains, good levels of standard equipment, and, in many cases, a lower price than Western competitors.