The Labour government has this week lifeted the tax on non folding e-bikes made in China. The tax, which was between 10 and 70% has existed since Brexit was removed on 6th Feb 2025. Originally the “anti dumping” tariffs were implemented by the EU in 2018 and were aimed to protect European manufacturers from cheap Chinese imports. After Brexit these tariffs were put into UK law meaning thew same tariffs applied to Chinese e-bikes imported into the UK.
Now the Trade Remedies Authority (TRA), the UK has decided, from 6th Feb 2025, to remove these tarrifs making bikes cheaper for consumers. Strangely tarrifs will remain on folding e-bikes however. Obviously the decision has met with much critisism from UK e-bike manufacturers but the general consensus amongst the cycling community is that e-bikes are overpriced.
The removal of these tariffs should have a number of benefits for UK consumers.
- Lower prices – existing manufacturs will have to compete with Chinese imports hopefully lowering prices.
- Encourage e-bike use – lower prices should encourage more people to buy and ride e-bikes.
- More choice – consumers will have a wider range of e-bike to choose from.
