The Commerce Ministry in Beijing has firmly opposed the European Union’s decision to impose punitive tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, describing the move as protectionist and a grave violation of World Trade Organisation regulations.

In a statement on Friday, the ministry added the tariffs disrupted the international trade order, and threatened the global effort to tackle climate change.

"China has all along demonstrated the utmost sincerity to resolve the differences through dialogue. Since the end of June, the two sides have engaged in more than 10 discussions on the matter," a spokesman said.

The imposition of tariffs will not solve matters, and instead “rattle and impede” the confidence and determination of Chinese enterprises to invest in Europe, he warned.

The spokesman once again urged the EU to return to the negotiating table, and vowed to take all necessary measures to defend the interests of Chinese firms.