background image

Rich world uses green policies to hold back the poor, says UN trade chief

author image

By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece in the Financial Times or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: UN trade chief Rebeca Grynspan criticizes rich countries for leveraging green policies to economically disadvantage developing nations
• She highlights how subsidies and environmental protectionism in the US and EU, under the guise of environmental concern, exploit outdated World Trade Organization rules to the detriment of poorer countries

🔭 The context: Grynspan points to the challenges faced by developing countries, locked out of markets due to rapid technological changes and new barriers erected by wealthy nations
• She underscores the growing digital divide and the resurgence of industrial policy in developed countries, impacting the competitive abilities of developing nations

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: This issue highlights the tension between environmental goals and equitable global trade 
• While developed countries advance their green agendas through subsidies and policies, developing nations struggle without similar fiscal capabilities, leading to trade restrictions or additional taxes

⏭️ What's next: The challenge lies in reforming international trade rules and agreements, such as the Agreement on Trade-Related Investment Measures, to create a more equitable system
• The ongoing dispute between the EU and Indonesia over nickel exports exemplifies the complexities and potential conflicts in aligning global trade with environmental goals

💬 One quote: “The whole issue of common but differentiated responsibility has been marginalized. Paris is not a restaurant menu that you can choose from. That was an integral part of the deal” (Rebeca Grynspan, UN Trade Chief)

Click for more news covering the latest on the Energy Transition

Did you enjoy this illuminem voice? Support us by sharing this article!
author photo

About the author

illuminem's editorial team - providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day.

Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

Other illuminem Voices


Related Posts


You cannot miss it!

Weekly. Free. Your Top 10 Sustainability & Energy Posts.

You can unsubscribe at any time (read our privacy policy)