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China urges EU to ensure new carbon tariff complies with WTO rules
(EurActiv, 15 Sep 2023) The European Union should ensure its plans to impose 20% to 35% tariffs on imports of high-carbon goods like steel, iron ore and cement comply with World Trade Organisation rules, China said on Thursday (14 September), and not overstep agreed global green trade policies.
China is one of several countries to have aired concerns within the WTO over the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) designed to prevent European industry being undercut by cheaper goods from countries with weaker environmental rules.
“The EU-proposed carbon border adjustment mechanism has raised doubts among many WTO members,” said He Yadong, a commerce ministry spokesperson, while urging the EU to “avoid creating protectionist measures and green trade barriers.”
“Under the framework of the WTO, China is willing to work with all parties to promote multilateral discussion on green trade,” He added.
“Countries should adhere to multilateralism and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities,” He said, “and work together to address climate change through broad cooperation.”
China has set some bold green targets, including President Xi Jinping’s pledge to make the country carbon neutral by 2060, but climate experts want Beijing to act faster and are questioning its position that China should carry less of the load because it is a developing country.
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EurActiv, 15 Sep 2023: China urges EU to ensure new carbon tariff complies with WTO rules
