China has condemned the investigation as an act of naked protectionism designed to insulate European carmakers from their niftier Chinese rivals. Mr Dombrovskis promised that it would be conducted fairly, in accordance with “well-established rules” and in consultation with Chinese authorities and stakeholders.

“The EU welcomes competition. It makes our companies stronger and more innovative. However, competition must be fair. And we will be more assertive in tackling unfairness,” he said.

The trade commissioner criticised Beijing’s neutral stance on the war in Ukraine and its failure to condemn Russia’s invasion or to join in western sanctions against Moscow. He said that China’s stance was difficult to understand in view of Beijing’s longstanding position that each country should be free to choose its own development path.

“There is also a reputational risk to China. Its position on the war in Ukraine is affecting the country’s image, not only with European consumers, but also businesses. Over a third of EU companies in this country have indicated that China’s position on the war is making it a less attractive investment destination,” he said.

China’s foreign ministry rejected Mr Dombrovskis’s criticism, dismissing his claim that Beijing’s focus on national security was undermining the business environment for European companies with Chinese operations.

“We will continue to provide a market-oriented, legal and international business environment for companies from all over the world to legally operate in China,” foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said.

“China is not the source of risks, but rather a firm force for preventing and defusing risks,” the spokesperson added.