The European Union is expected to initiate an investigation into Chinese robotic lawn mowers as trade tensions with China continue to escalate, according to the South China Morning Post, citing sources familiar with the matter.
A potential competition probe could impact Chinese exports and reduce manufacturers' presence in the European market.
The EU is anticipated to begin its investigation as early as this week. This comes at a time when China has been selling an increasing number of robotic lawn mowers to Europe, and at higher prices. More than 40 percent of China's robotic lawn mower exports are destined for the EU. Furthermore, during the first three quarters of this year, exports surged by 37.7 percent, according to customs data.
Meanwhile, forestry and garden product company Husqvarna saw its shares rise by 1.2 percent on the Stockholm Stock Exchange today, trading at 43.12 kronor.
