US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen recently concluded her visit to China, focusing on managing the bilateral economic relationship. During her meetings with Chinese officials, Yellen highlighted concerns about Chinese unfair trade practices, particularly in sectors like hi-tech and clean energy, such as electric vehicles (EVs), lithium batteries, and solar panels.
She emphasized the need for China to address industrial overcapacity and shift towards market-oriented reforms. However, addressing overcapacity in China is a complex issue, especially regarding the wind industry.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen (Credits: FOX 59)
While there are legitimate concerns about overcapacity hurting domestic industries in the West, implementing measures to restrict imports could lead to higher prices and supply chain disruptions. The EU’s anti-dumping investigation into Chinese EVs reflects similar challenges in balancing trade interests and addressing overcapacity issues.
China’s economic model inherently includes overcapacity, posing challenges for Western efforts to curb it. Despite calls for change, such as Yellen’s emphasis on market-oriented reforms, overcapacity is deeply ingrained in China’s economic strategies.
China’s EV producers in the automotive sector demonstrate high capacity utilization rates, indicating efficiency and competitiveness. Larger companies like BYD and SAIC have thrived, while smaller, less efficient producers have faced challenges. China’s relatively low dependence on EV exports also limits the impact of potential tariffs on its total EV sector growth.
Janet Yellen (Credits: Moneycontrol)
On the other hand, sectors like lithium batteries and solar panels face great overcapacity issues, leading to lower prices that benefit importing countries’ green transition efforts. Imposing tariffs on these products could hinder green transition targets, as Western alternatives are not readily available.
The nuanced dynamics of overcapacity in China highlight the complication of trade relations and the need for strategic approaches that balance economic interests with environmental goals. Finding solutions that promote fair trade practices while supporting sustainable economic growth remains a critical challenge for global policymakers.
