Beijing accuses the EU of protectionism after bloc opens subsidy investigation into Chinese wind energy giant Goldwind, warning it could deter investment.

BEIJING: China has accused the European Union of taking “discriminatory” measures following the bloc’s decision to open an investigation into clean energy giant Goldwind.

The European Commission announced the probe on Tuesday over concerns the Chinese firm may have unfairly benefited from state subsidies.

Foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the move sends “protectionist signals”. He warned the investigation would “affect the confidence of Chinese companies in investing in Europe”.

Goldwind is one of the world’s largest wind turbine suppliers and is seeking to expand its overseas operations. This growth brings it into direct competition with Western firms.

The commission stated a preliminary investigation found Goldwind “may have been granted foreign subsidies that distort the internal market”. Brussels clarified that opening an in-depth probe does not prejudge its final outcome.

If competition concerns are sustained, the EU could accept remedies from the company or impose corrective measures. China now dominates the global wind sector in installed capacity, aided historically by generous state subsidies and rapid domestic market growth.

 The Sun Malaysia