Chinese Auto Exports Boom in Europe: Belgium & Spain Are The Hotspots
Surge of Chinese Automotive Exports to Europe: Belgium as the Primary Gateway
China's automotive exports to Europe have reached unprecedented levels, with Belgium emerging as the continent's undisputed entry hub. Between January and August 2024, Belgium imported over 182,500 Chinese vehicles, predominantly electric models, through its world-class ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge.
Why Belgium Dominates as Europe's Chinese Auto Gateway
- World-Class Port Infrastructure: Antwerp and Zeebrugge ports offer unmatched efficiency and strategic location for EU-wide distribution
- Logistical Mastery: Over 80% of Chinese EVs entering Belgium are redistributed to other EU markets within 72 hours
- Pre-Tariff Rush: September 2024 saw a 71.7% monthly surge as exporters raced to beat new EU tariffs
- Regulatory Expertise: Chinese manufacturers have perfected compliance with strict EU standards for safety, emissions and technical requirements
Secondary European Gateways
While Belgium handles the majority of imports, Spain's Barcelona port serves as crucial southern European hub, processing 77,388 Chinese EVs in September 2024 alone.
EU Import Statistics (2024)
| Country | Import Volume | Key Role |
|---|---|---|
| Belgium | 182,500+ vehicles | Primary distribution hub for all Europe |
| Spain | 77,388 (September only) | Southern Europe distribution center |
EU Tariff Impact and Chinese Response
The EU's October 2024 imposition of 17-38% countervailing duties on Chinese EVs caused:
- Short-term export surge before implementation
- Strategic shift to EU-based production (e.g., BYD's new Hungary plant)
Step-by-Step Import Guide Through Belgium
1. Compliance Preparation
- Obtain European Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
- Secure EU battery certification for all EVs
2. Shipping & Customs
- Register as EU importer
- Prepare for 10-11% import duty + 21% VAT
- Choose between RoRo or container shipping via TopUsedCars.com
3. Post-Arrival Process
- Customs clearance at Antwerp/Zeebrugge
- Technical inspection and registration
- Plate assignment and insurance through TopUsedCars.com
Top Exporting Chinese Brands
| Brand | Flagship Models | Market Position |
|---|---|---|
| BYD | Han, Song PLUS | Belgium's best-selling Chinese EV brand |
| Chery | Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8 | 2024 export volume leader |
| SAIC (MG) | MG ZS, MG 3, MG 5 | Historically strong but declining |
| Geely/Volvo | EX30, XC60, XC40, S90 | Premium segment dominance |
| Jetour | Traveler | 10x export growth in 2024 |
Competitive Advantages of Chinese Vehicles
- Price Leadership: 79% cheaper than European equivalents for fleet buyers
- Feature-Rich: Advanced tech at mid-range price points
- Rapid Adaptation: Quick response to European consumer preferences
Market Growth Indicators
- Chinese brands captured 8% of EU EV market by 2023
- Belgium registered 9,800+ new Chinese cars in 2023 (2x 2022 volume)
- New energy vehicles now comprise 40%+ of China's auto exports
Conclusion
Belgium's port infrastructure and distribution networks make it the ideal gateway for importing Chinese vehicles into Europe. Despite new EU tariffs, manufacturers are adapting through local production and continued innovation, ensuring Chinese cars remain highly competitive in European markets.
Article by TopUsedCars.com reporter Xiao Mi
