The European Union's recent decision to impose hefty tariffs of 45% on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) has exposed a glaring contradiction in its climate policy. While claiming to champion CO2 reduction in transportation, the EU's protectionist measures effectively limit access to affordable green alternatives.

This move raises questions about the sincerity of Europe's commitment to combating climate change. If reducing emissions were truly the priority, wouldn't the logical step be to open markets wider, enabling more consumers to purchase cost-effective, eco-friendly vehicles?

Instead, the EU has opted to shield its automotive industry from competition, potentially slowing the transition to cleaner transportation. This decision reveals that economic protectionism may be trumping environmental concerns in Brussels.

The irony is palpable: in the name of climate protection, Europe is making it harder for its citizens to adopt cleaner technologies. This policy not only contradicts stated climate goals but also risks delaying the widespread adoption of EVs across the continent.

The correct policy would be to dismantle the bureaucratic apparatus and also leave the automotive industry to free competition. Let companies and consumers decide on the best allocation of resources in the economy, not ideology-soaked officials far away in Brussels.