China's green tech surge sparks global trade tensions
China's rapid expansion into renewable technology, including becoming the world's largest producer of solar cells, is raising concerns over potential unfair competition in the U.S. and Europe.
Christian Shepherd reports for The Washington Post.
In short:
- China dominates the global market in solar panels, electric vehicles, and lithium-ion batteries, raising alarms in Western countries.
- The U.S. and Europe are investigating China's trade practices, worried about the impact on their own renewable energy industries.
- Chinese companies are looking abroad for profits, potentially pushing American and European competitors out of the global market.
Key quote:
“From a Chinese perspective, their industrial policy really worked. Now they are starting to hit walls.”
— Nis Grünberg, a researcher at the Mercator Institute of China Studies
Why this matters:
As the world grapples with the urgent need to combat climate change, China's leadership in green technology offers a glimpse into a future where renewable energy and sustainability take center stage.
Be sure to listen to Agents of Change senior fellow Azmal Hossan as he talks about an ambitious effort he’s part of to get the U.S. and China working together on climate change.
