Beijing: China has strongly criticised the European Union for opening an investigation into a leading Chinese wind turbine manufacturer, saying the move sends a protectionist signal and could damage business confidence.
The investigation was launched by the European Commission into Goldwind Science & Technology, one of the world’s biggest suppliers of wind turbines. EU officials are examining whether the company received financial support from the Chinese state that may have helped it win business in Europe at unfairly low prices.
The probe is being carried out under the EU’s foreign subsidies rules, which allow Brussels to investigate companies that may benefit from government support outside the bloc in ways that distort competition inside the EU. Regulators are looking at possible subsidies such as direct grants, tax advantages and low interest loans.
If the Commission finds that such support gave Goldwind an unfair edge over European competitors, it could order the company to change its business practices, repay benefits or face other corrective measures. In serious cases, the EU could also restrict future contracts or investments linked to the firm.
China’s foreign ministry of China said the EU action was discriminatory and warned that it could hurt trust among Chinese companies operating in Europe. A ministry spokesperson said the probe sends the wrong signal at a time when cooperation in clean energy is needed to tackle climate change and promote global economic recovery.
Beijing also argued that the EU should avoid using trade and competition rules as tools to block foreign companies. It urged Brussels to handle the case in a fair and transparent way and to respect market principles.
The European Union has stepped up scrutiny of Chinese firms in recent years, especially in areas such as electric vehicles, batteries, solar panels and wind power. European manufacturers complain that heavy state backing allows Chinese companies to offer lower prices, making it harder for local firms to compete.
The wind energy sector is seen as strategic for Europe’s climate goals, with governments investing heavily in offshore and onshore wind farms to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. As demand for turbines grows, competition between European and Chinese suppliers has become sharper.
The case against Goldwind follows earlier checks and information requests sent by the Commission last year. Officials said there were early signs that foreign subsidies may be involved, but stressed that no conclusion has yet been reached and the company has not been found guilty of any wrongdoing.
China said it hopes the EU will avoid actions that could harm trade relations and slow down the global transition to renewable energy. Both sides have said they support climate action, but the dispute shows how economic rivalry is increasingly affecting green industries.