New energy exports face trade barriers

BEIJING - Exports of new energy and energy-saving products will be targeted by trade barriers in developed countries, led by the United States, a commerce official warned.

To offset this, exporters will need to improve technology and their capacity for innovation to enhance competitiveness, said Zhang Yujing, president of the China Chamber of Commerce for the Import & Export of Machinery & Electronic Products.

Zhang's remarks follow the US Commerce Department's decision last week to investigate if Chinese companies are selling solar cells below cost and receiving illegal government subsidies. The investigation came after a petition was lodged by a group of US solar companies.