Western climate action is facing a hypocrisy check as China pushes back against what experts call “green protectionism.” From tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) to mixed messages on sustainability, the debate over clean energy trade is heating up faster than a Tesla battery on a summer day.
Professor John Gong, a trade policy expert, argues that the U.S. and EU’s recent moves—like Washington’s 100% EV tariffs and Brussels’ provisional duties—prioritize protectionism over planet-saving goals. “When Chinese EVs could help cut emissions,” he says, “the climate agenda suddenly vanishes.”
The clash peaked at this week’s Summer Davos in Dalian, where Chinese Premier Li Qiang dropped a truth bomb: “We can’t slow our green transition for short-term gains or hide protectionism behind environmental slogans.” His remarks spotlight a growing divide in global climate cooperation—with major economies accused of playing ‘my rules, your loss‘ games.
While Western leaders cite “overcapacity” concerns, industry data reveals a twist: Chinese EV exports to the U.S. barely hit 100 monthly units before tariffs. Meanwhile, affordable Chinese EVs are gaining traction in Southeast Asia and Latin America, fueling debates about equitable green tech access.
As the trade tussle escalates, one question lingers: Will climate action become collateral damage in the race for economic dominance?
From tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) to mixed messages on sustainability, the debate over clean energy trade is heating up faster than a Tesla battery on a summer day. 
“We can’t slow our green transition for short-term gains or hide protectionism behind environmental slogans.” His remarks spotlight a growing divide in global climate cooperation—with major economies accused of playing ‘my rules, your loss‘ games. 
Meanwhile, affordable Chinese EVs are gaining traction in Southeast Asia and Latin America, fueling debates about equitable green tech access. 
EU Slaps Tariffs on Chinese EVs: Protectionism in…
