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Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to survey the growth of solar energy worldwide, analyze US-China trade dispute in the solar industry, and evaluate the merits of US trade tariffs. Design/methodology/approach – The study surveyed archival data, publications by international organizations, government agencies, industry groups, and some academic research papers. Findings – Global demand for solar energy has been rising steadily and is projected to generate growing source of electric power. There is worldwide consensus that public support for solar industry in the development stages is necessary. The US Government provides generous support programs and subsidies to US solar industry. Accordingly, US punitive tariffs against China's solar industry on grounds of government subsidies are of questionable merit. Originality/value – This paper presents a concise profile of global solar energy and evaluates US trade policy toward China. The findings can be of value to government officials as they consider trade policies and their impact on the future of solar energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this paper is to evaluate the strategic priorities for small and medium-size U.S. firms in post WTO China. Within this context the objectives are several fold including: The impact of the World Trade Organization as an agent of globalization, problems of market entry, risk assessment, and the priorities of internal firm reorganization. The analysis shows that smaller firms can succeed. But it is exceptionally difficult to do business in China for smaller firms. It is also true that larger manufacturing firms will do better. Other issues examined in relation to risk assessment include financing, corruption, legal guidelines, and cultural concerns. This research methodology is based on a continuing series of on-site structured interviews with key influencers in Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, and Singapore from 1988 to the summer of 2002 including a recent 18 month research leave in the Far East. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]