Thursday 13 September 2012

China tackles EU friction over solar “dumping” complaints

China sent delegates to Europe earlier this week to negotiate the country’s position after allegations they were underselling solar panels.

It follows the European Commission’s decision last week to launch an investigation into the solar “dumping” complaints made by EU firms.

A handful of EU-based firms alleged Chinese solar producers were selling panels below market value in Europe.

China’s Ministry of Commerce said they sent delegates to resolve the issue with the EU and help safeguard the interests of Chinese companies.

Chong Quan, a spokesperson for the Chinese Government and one of the representatives said: “The Chinese side hopes to resolve trade frictions through consultation. Our position to cooperate has not changed and I hope that the European Union will be prudent to not take trade protection measures but to encourage cooperation between the two sides, common development and create better working conditions.”

Following the Commission’s announcement last week, Chinese firms said the friction could harm fair competition in the market and affect the solar industry.

The US Government also imposed tariffs on China's solar imports earlier this year due to concerns Chinese firms were "flooding" the American market.