SEIA Says Multilateral Negotiations Important to Resolving China Trade Dispute

WASHINGTON, DC – Reacting to published reports that the United States and the European Union are trying to settle a lingering trade dispute with China over anti-dumping and anti-subsidy allegations, John Smirnow, vice president of trade and competitiveness for the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) – issued the following statement:

“Meeting last week in China, SEIA and the Asia PV Industry Association – along with several other organizations – agreed to a joint policy position, the Shanghai Solar Declaration, which strongly encourages the United States, China, the European Union and other nations to engage in multilateral trade negotiations aimed at ending this costly and disruptive dispute. 

“After expressing our intentions to the White House, we are very encouraged that these long-needed negotiations appear ready to proceed.  Simply put, it’s time for everyone to work together toward a fair resolution of these cases.

“There is clear evidence that disputes within one segment of the industry affect the entire solar supply chain.  What’s more, they cause a ripple effect throughout the economies of the United States, Asia and Europe.  In addition to resolving current disagreements, we hope this process will also lead to the creation of a pro-competitive, collaborative framework for preventing future trade conflicts and ensuring the adoption of balanced and equitable agreements in the future.

“And, finally, in attempting to settle this dispute, we strongly encourage the Administration to carefully evaluate what impact any actions may have on American consumers and U.S. workers.”

More Resources:

– Shanghai Solar Declaration
– SEIA: International Trade updates
– “SEIA Statement on U.S. Department of Commerce Final AD/CVD Determinations,” October 10, 2012.

About SEIA®:
Established in 1974, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA and its 1,000 member companies are building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works to make solar a mainstream and significant energy source by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. www.seia.org

Media Contacts:
Jamie Nolan, jnolan@seia.org, 202.556.2886
Ken Johnson, kjohnson@seia.org, 202.556.2885