Europe launches Chinese solar probe

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BRUSSELS, Feb. 28 (UPI) -- The European Commission announced Thursday it launched an investigation into trade practices tied to the import of solar components from China.

The commission in September launched an investigation into alleged dumping of solar panels from Chinese manufacturers. Industry ad hoc association EU Pro Sun in July filed a complaint stating solar power components from China in the European market were priced below fair market value.

In a separate investigation, the commission said it would take about 15 months to examine the alleged dumping of solar glass, a components used to make solar panels. The investigation follows a complaint from EU Pro Sun Glass, which isn't formally affiliated with EU Pro Sun.

Chinese-manufactured solar products account for more than half of the global market and dominate Europe in terms of exports. The solar glass market in the European Union is valued at around $200 million.

"The commission concluded that there was sufficient prima facie evidence to warrant the opening of an investigation," it said.

The commission said it would issue provisional findings from its investigation within nine months.