**Abstract**
Under the "double anti-" pressure from Europe and the United States, China's photovoltaic industry managed to survive through a challenging 2013. Looking back at those turbulent times, it's clear that the industry not only owes gratitude to the government for launching domestic markets but also to the timely support from various stakeholders. Most importantly, the upstream polysilicon industry took the initiative in a "self-defense counterattack," eventually leading to the "China-EU price commitment" strategy, which allowed continued production and trade.
However, these efforts were not enough to ensure long-term stability for China's solar sector. Not long ago, on "Western Valentine's Day" (February 14, 2014), the U.S. once again imposed broader and more intense "double anti-dumping" measures on all crystalline silicon photovoltaic products from China, effectively cutting off direct exports. This marked another wave of aggressive trade barriers, making 2014 anything but peaceful for the Chinese solar industry.
In addition to the "double anti-" measures, new challenges emerged early in the year with updated data on polysilicon imports and exports. The China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association issued an alert, revealing that despite anti-dumping investigations against U.S. and South Korean polysilicon imports, China’s overall import volume remained high—11.1% above the 2013 monthly average.
More concerning was the fact that 55.5% of January’s 7,471 tons of imported polysilicon came through processing trade, far exceeding the pre-"double anti-" average of 50%. This method allowed companies to avoid tariffs and circumvent restrictions, raising concerns about how much of this material actually supported domestic production.
If we interpret this as a "magnanimous mass" approach, allowing foreign producers to exploit this loophole, it seems unfair, especially when the U.S. later launched a second round of "double anti-" actions. The imbalance became even more apparent.
**U.S. Polysilicon "Doesn't Look Back"**
The U.S. has consistently applied "double anti-dumping" and countervailing duties since 2011, with rates ranging from 18.32% to over 250%. These measures have persisted throughout 2013, forcing Chinese companies to find creative ways to bypass them. Some chose to build factories overseas or import components from Taiwan, then re-export them to the U.S. to avoid tariffs.
Despite these strategies, the U.S. remains a critical market, and no company wants to pay more than 30% extra. In 2013, China managed to export around 2.5 GW of modules to the U.S., but the majority of the materials used came from Taiwan, not from U.S. polysilicon imports.
According to customs data, China imported 10,834.12 tons of polysilicon from the U.S. via processing trade. However, the actual consumption of this material in producing U.S.-bound modules was minimal. Most of it ended up being exported to other countries, contributing to China's total 16 GW of module exports.
The U.S., while claiming to promote fair trade, has a weak domestic manufacturing base. It has dumped Chinese PV products below cost while refusing to allow them to be sold back into its market. This imbalance is fueled by policies like processing trade, which enable companies to bypass tariffs and continue exporting.
**Unequal Trade**
For over a decade, China's photovoltaic industry has faced growing inequality in international trade. The 2013 data shows a stark imbalance: while China imported large amounts of polysilicon from Germany, the U.S., and South Korea, very little of it returned as finished products.
Germany, for example, supplied 26,122 tons of polysilicon, enough to produce 4 GW of modules. But due to EU sanctions, only 753 MW was actually exported back, a mere 19% of the potential. Similarly, South Korea sent 21,631 tons, yet only 109 MW of modules returned to it—less than 2.8%.
The U.S. imported 22,313 tons of polysilicon, but almost none of it was used to produce modules for export back to the U.S. due to the "double anti-" measures.
Overall, only 34% of China’s 80,000+ tons of polysilicon imports came through general trade, while the rest was processed under tax-free methods, costing the government an estimated 243 million yuan in lost revenue.
**Used "Processing Trade"**
Why do these countries ignore China’s anti-dumping measures? After the preliminary ruling in July 2013, China’s polysilicon imports surged, with over 80% coming through processing trade. This was because such imports could avoid tariffs and anti-dumping duties until the final ruling in January 2014.
Processing trade, a policy designed to boost employment and exports, allows companies to import raw materials without paying full duties, provided they re-export the finished goods. While beneficial for some, it also creates loopholes that undermine trade regulations.
Industry insiders argue that while processing trade has helped China’s economy grow, it now hinders innovation and technological advancement. It’s time for policy makers to rethink this approach and focus on building a stronger, more competitive solar industry.
In the end, the market is a battlefield, and success depends on technology, capital, and marketing. For China to truly become a global leader, it must move beyond low-cost manufacturing and embrace innovation.
Back To Wall Smart Toilet
Beautiful: The back to wall Smart Toilet with hidden water tank design creates a clean and simple bathroom space. The absence of a visible tank gives the toilet a sleek, streamlined look that enhances the overall aesthetic of the space.
Easy to clean and maintain: With no exposed tank, cleaning the back-to-wall smart toilet just got easier. There are no nooks and crannies where dirt or dust can collect, making it easier to wipe and keep clean. Plus, the hidden tank is easily accessible when repairs or maintenance are required, saving time and effort.
Additional Features: The wall-mounted smart toilet is equipped with a range of advanced features for enhanced functionality and comfort. These may include self-cleaning systems, automatic deodorization, automatic flushing, bidet cleaning functions, and even night lights. These features provide additional comfort and convenience to the user.
Water efficiency and sustainability: Smart toilets feature water-saving technologies such as dual flush systems or high-efficiency flush mechanisms. This helps conserve water and promotes sustainable living. By reducing water usage, the back-to-wall smart toilet helps the environment.
In conclusion, the wall-mounted smart toilet has both aesthetic and functional advantages. Its hidden cistern design brings a clean, modern look to the bathroom, while also making cleaning and maintenance easier. Additional features enhance comfort and convenience, and a focus on water efficiency aligns with sustainable living practices. Overall, the wall-mounted smart toilet provides a comfortable, stylish and eco-friendly toileting experience.
Back To Wall Smart Toilet, Dual Flush Smart Toilet, Intelligent Water Closet, Hidden Cistern Toilet
Guangdong Fabia Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.smartfabiatoilet.com