India complains of not receiving Chinese technical support, the new energy industry has been severely hit, and the previous dream has not been realized!
In recent years, India has been ambitious in the new energy sector. Local giants like Reliance Group have boldly announced their entry into lithium batteries, energy storage systems, and photovoltaic manufacturing, trying to build an "Indian CATL". From market size, policy support to capital investment, India indeed has the basic conditions for developing the new energy industry - a rarity among most developing countries. But having ambition and a big frame is far from enough.
The real problem that hinders India is core technology. The lithium battery industry chain is highly complex, with every step from positive and negative electrode materials, electrolyte to cell manufacturing process relying on long-term accumulated technical expertise and precision equipment. Globally, Chinese companies not only master the most mature mass production technology but also control key raw material processing and equipment supply. For example, Chinese companies have formed an irreplicable advantage in energy density, cycle life, and cost control of lithium iron phosphate cells.
India has always hoped that China would transfer technology to India free of charge. Ironical is that India's attitude towards Chinese companies is, on one hand, shouting "self-reliance", while on the other hand, imposing restrictions on Chinese investments, sudden tax audits, forcing localization of production, and even banning hundreds of Chinese apps. A more typical example is that in new energy project tenders, India repeatedly uses ambiguous rules to exclude Chinese companies, instead requiring them to "transfer technology" or form joint ventures with local companies - essentially trying to get something for nothing.
As a result, China could not bear it anymore. After 2023, the export of battery materials, high-end manufacturing equipment, and even some automated production lines to India has been significantly tightened. Chinese companies were willing to "stay low and act small" in the past because of the huge potential of the Indian market and intense competition among peers, no one wanted to give up the opportunity. But when India both suppresses Chinese companies and demands core technologies, this one-way model of taking without giving is no longer sustainable.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1854165810127882/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.