Warns Against Trade Barriers and Broken Finance Promises.
Union Minister Piyush Goyal sharply criticized Europe’s climate policies at the Berlin Global Dialogue 2026, arguing that developed nations must accept responsibility for the environmental crisis. He cautioned that measures such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and steep import duties on steel could destabilize industries, raise consumer costs, and undermine global competitiveness.
Holding Europe to Account
In a heated exchange, Goyal asked who had caused the climate emergency. When a panellist suggested “all of us,” he disagreed, stressing that India, despite supporting nearly 17 percent of the world’s population, contributes less than 3 percent of global emissions. He argued that Europe, representing only a small fraction of the population, has historically produced disproportionately high emissions.
“India’s footprint is far smaller than Europe’s, even today,” Goyal said, highlighting India’s emphasis on waste reduction and circular economy practices.
Criticism of CBAM and Import Duties
Goyal warned that Europe’s decision to impose CBAM and a 50 percent duty on steel imports would backfire. “You are inviting disaster. Your cost of living will rise, industries will suffer, and consumers will pay the price,” he remarked. He accused Europe of relying on coal and cheap energy during its growth phase, creating the very crisis it now seeks to regulate.
Although another panellist suggested that his criticism extended to the United States, Goyal clarified that he was speaking specifically about Europe.
Paris Agreement Principles
Referencing the 2015 Paris Agreement, Goyal underscored the principle of “common but differentiated responsibility”, which places greater obligations on developed nations to support developing and vulnerable countries. He criticized the failure of wealthy economies to deliver on their pledge of $100 billion annually in climate finance, noting: “Eleven years later, not a nickel or dime has materialized. It’s all promises.”
India’s Clean Energy Push
Despite global pressure, Goyal emphasised India’s rapid expansion of renewable energy and commitment to sustainability. He positioned India as a nation balancing growth with responsibility, contrasting its trajectory with Europe’s historic emissions and current trade restrictions.
Strengthening Ties Abroad
Goyal’s remarks came during his official visit to Germany and the Netherlands from October 22 to 27, accompanied by a delegation of around 100 Indian businesses and startups. The trip aims to deepen economic cooperation while reinforcing India’s stance on equitable climate responsibility.
