Half of EU Members “Oppose China Solar Tariffs”

The EU, as China’s biggest trade partner, is divided over imposing tariffs on Chinese solar panels. The UK and Germany, along with other EU member states, are at odds with pro-tariff France and Italy. Tariff supporters argue that Chinese-made solar panels are being sold below cost in Europe, also long regarded a global leader in promoting alternative energies. Germany’s position is curious, suggests a BBC News report: The country originally supported the tariffs proposed by the EU trade commissioner after Solar World, a German company, first complained about the dumping. The report suggests that Chinese trade officials applied pressure. German Chancellor Angela Merkel indicated that Germany’s change of heart toward favoring a negotiated solution was motivated by fears of a trade war. The French industry minister is quoted as saying, “"We want to see a balanced relationship between China and the European Union,” a statement that may be indicative of a larger EU divide over relations with China. – YaleGlobal