The Sino-European Solar Panel Dispute: China’s Successful Carrot and Stick Approach Towards Europe

Abstract:
This article considers the Sino-European solar panel conflict, which occurred between 2012 and 2014. The article takes a particular interest in how China and Europe coped with the trade dispute, which arose after several European solar companies filed a complaint in the European Commission accusing the Chinese of unfair trade practices (i.e. dumping and illegal subsidising).

An analysis of the internal and external challenges that were decisive for the outcome of the trade conflict is illustrated, after which the article makes some conclusions about the concept of economic statecraft, how it is applied and on the effectiveness of European economic diplomacy in the changing Sino-European trade relationship.

Further information

The JCER is an open-access journal published by the University Association for Contemporary European Studies (UACES) in association with the UACES Student Forum.

The JCER invites submissions from scholars who are experts in any subject area delivering analysis that relates to Europe. This includes, but is not limited to, Politics/International Relations, Area Studies, European Integration, Economics, Law, History, Culture and Learning & Teaching. The journal publishes the work of established academics alongside that of PhD students and early career researchers.

• Primary Source

EurActiv, 28.08.13: EU says China gave illegal aid to solar industry (et al) http://www.europeansources.info/record/eu-says-china-gave-illegal-aid-to-solar-industry/

JCER, Vol.13, No.4 (2017): Complete Issue https://www.jcer.net/index.php/jcer/issue/view/52

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