KATHMANDU: The Chinese government is preparing to restrict the export of low-quality electric vehicles (EVs) following concerns that such exports were tarnishing the reputation of established brands.
According to a new policy being introduced by the Chinese government, EV sellers will be required to follow existing rules that permit only automakers and their authorized companies to apply for export licenses.
According to media reports, some reputable Chinese automakers had raised complaints with the government that substandard EVs were being shipped abroad. Responding to these calls, China is tightening the rules for export licenses for EV shipments.
Under the new rule, every passenger EV manufacturer seeking to export will need to apply for the license by disclosing details about their export qualifications, production processes and management systems.
The new measure will also block Chinese EV companies from selling vehicles overseas through unauthorized channels. Studies have shown that EVs sold via such informal routes often faced problems such as an inability to receive software updates and a lack of proper after-sales service.
Between January and August 2025, China exported 1.44 million pure EVs, a 27% increase compared to the same period last year.
Europe remains the largest market for Chinese EVs at present. Chinese brands also have a strong presence in Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern countries.
