China strongly opposes the European Union’s move to impose new tariffs of up to 35% on electric vehicle imports from China.

Chinese authorities warned of taking steps to protect their companies’ interests, as they have filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization.

EU trade chief Valdis Dombrovskis said the tariffs are proportional and intended to ensure fair market practices.

Approved by most EU member states, the tariffs will be in effect for five years. They apply to several manufacturers, including foreign companies like Tesla, which is facing a 7.8% tariff.

Chinese firms such as Geely and SAIC will be subject to tariffs of 18.8% and 35.3% respectively.