In a major step for global climate action, China and Germany held their first high-level dialogue on green transition and renewable energy cooperation in Beijing this weekend. 🔋 The meeting, led by National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) Chairman Zheng Shanjie and German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck, focused on turbocharging clean energy innovation while addressing a heated debate about Chinese electric vehicle (EV) exports. 🚗⚡
Busting the 'Overcapacity' Myth
As China races toward its 2030 carbon peak goal, Zheng pushed back against claims of Chinese 'overcapacity' in green tech: \"Protectionism blocks climate progress and violates market rules.\" Germany's Habeck echoed concerns about global trade barriers, calling restrictions \"bad news for both economies and ecosystems.\" 🌍💼
EV Tariff Tensions Spark Debate
The talks come as the EU considers slapping 38.1% tariffs on Chinese EVs – a move experts call \"trade protection in green clothing.\" NDRC researcher Yuan Shenglong warned: \"These measures hurt Europe's own green transformation more than China's EV boom.\" 🔌⚖️
New agreements emerged too, including provincial-level green partnerships and smarter energy grids. With Germany being China’s top EU trade partner for decades, this dialogue could shape sustainable tech from Berlin to Guangzhou. 🛠️🌿
