Turkey cracks down on hybrid car imports as it seeks Chinese investment

Turkey's trade ministry imposed strict conditions on the import of plug-in hybrid vehicles from some countries, including China, according to a notice published in the Official Gazette on Friday.

The move follows a decision in June to limit imports of electric vehicles.

China has faced widespread criticism over its vehicle exports, which many countries claim are heavily subsidised by Beijing.

Analysts say Ankara is also seeking to increase pressure on Chinese carmakers with which it is holding talks about investing in production in Turkey.

The notice, which takes effect in 30 days, says an importer must meet conditions including having 20 authorised service shops in seven different regions of Turkey, in order to import chargeable hybrid vehicles not produced in the European Union or in countries with which Turkey has a free trade agreement.