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Monday 10 June 2013

EU places tarrif on imports of Chinese solar panels: Good or Bad?

An interesting article which highlights some of the arguments around trade and protectionism was released today. 
Tariffs placed by EU on imports of Chinese solar panels
The EU recently announced that it was placing import tariff's on Chinese Solar Panels, which it accused China of 'dumping' onto European markets.
 
Q: What is meant by 'dumping'?
 
Unsurprisingly perhaps, China has retaliated by placing tariffs on French wines. This case highlights the benefits and drawbacks of protectionism, and the arguments in favour of free trade. In this scenario both the UK and Germany voted against the introduction of solar panel tariffs, however were out voted in the European Parliament which meant that the tariff went ahead.
 
What do you think?
 
Q: Was the EU right to put these tariffs in place?
Q: Who benefits and who loses from this action?
Q: Can you think of a better solution which would resolve this problem for all parties concerned?
 
Post your thoughts and answers in the comments section below:
 

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