China introduces 10% extra tax on 'super cars'

The tax goes into effect on Thursday

China has introduced an additional 10% tax on "super cars", including Ferrari, Bentley, Aston Martin and Rolls-Royce.

The tax, affecting cars that cost more than 1.3m yuan ($189,000; £151,024), is aimed at curbing lavish spending and reducing emissions, authorities said.

It is part of a wider effort by Chinese authorities against flashy demonstrations of wealth, which has already hit other luxury brands.

China is a key market for high-end carmakers.

Automakers have in recent years increasingly tailored their luxury models to appeal to Chinese buyers.

Both Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin are planning to release SUV models in the next year, seen as a response to a Chinese preference for large cars over sports vehicles.

'Rational consumption'

"In order to guide rational consumption, and promote energy-saving emission reductions, the state Council has approved an additional consumption levy on ultra-luxury cars," a statement by the Ministry of Finance said.

The tax goes into effect on Thursday, although observers say it is unlikely to be a major deterrent for the super rich.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has made a campaign against corruption a centrepiece of his governing agenda, and has cracked down on luxury spending as part of that.

The country's ruling communist party on Thursday also issued new regulations for party officials against "pomp" as part of anti-corruption efforts.

Top officials should "travel without pomp, minimise impact on public life, and not have vehicles exceeding the set standards", the official Xinhua news agency reported.