Chinese Premier Li Keqiang praises new energy vehicle sector at industry event

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang added that China's support for new energy vehicles is "in line with international rules". PHOTO: BLOOMBERG

SHANGHAI (REUTERS) - Chinese Premier Li Keqiang praised the country's domestic new energy vehicle (NEV) industry on Saturday (Aug 27), stating that the sector "will continue to deepen international cooperation", in a letter shared with attendees at the World New Energy Vehicle Congress in Beijing.

Mr Li added that the country's support for NEVs is "in line with international rules", and that China needs extensive international cooperation to address climate change.

China's auto sector has been hit hard by government efforts to combat Covid-19, with many areas, including the commercial hub of Shanghai, under lockdowns of varying length.

The sector has endured a slight recovery since the Shanghai lockdown lifted, though heatwaves across the country this summer have also affected production.

Sales of pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, however, more than doubled from a year ago in the first half, helped in part by government subsidies and tax exemptions.

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