On May 16, 2024, a journalist captured an image of an employee working on the production line for solar panels at a GCL System Integration Technology factory in Hefei, Anhui province, China. The image provided insight into the manufacturing processes involved in the production of solar panels, which are critical components for renewable energy solutions.
In recent times, relations between China and the United States have become increasingly strained. As a result, China has hinted at potential tit-for-tat action against trade barriers imposed by the US. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce recently announced that it would be launching an anti-dumping investigation into polyoxymethylene (POM) copolymers, a thermoplastic used in various industries like auto parts and electronics.
Thermoplastics are flexible when heated but solidify when cooled, making them viable alternatives to metals like copper and zinc. The investigation will span a year, with the possibility of a six-month extension. This move follows President Joe Biden’s decision to increase tariffs on $18 billion worth of Chinese electric vehicle imports and other products over the next two years.
The tariffs on electric vehicles imported from China are set to nearly quadruple, jumping from 27.5% to 100%. This move aims to counter Beijing’s pricing strategies that favor domestic EV manufacturers over their US counterparts. The White House sees these measures as necessary to safeguard American businesses and workers from China’s perceived unfair trade practices.
In response to these developments, China has pledged to protect its legitimate rights by taking all essential actions. Meanwhile, the European Union is conducting its investigation into potential state support for Chinese EV manufacturers. If it finds that prices are artificially low, additional import duties may be imposed by early July. These actions highlight the escalating trade tensions between China, the US, and the EU.
On the other hand, solar panels remain essential components for renewable energy solutions as they harness sunlight’s power to generate electricity. Despite rising trade tensions between major economies like China and the US, renewable energy continues to gain popularity worldwide as countries strive towards sustainable development goals.
