"Economic problems in Europe are created in Europe," he told China Daily, pointing to higher costs following the loss of access to cheap Russian gas and the economic costs of conflict.

　　Continued trade demand with China, including for its renewable-energy products, showed the benefits countries and businesses expected from those ties, he said.

　　Consumers could also judge products through their own experience. Ross described automaker BYD as "the best ambassador for China", saying its customers could assess the cars for themselves. "They know that's a good car," he said.

　　Trade allows countries to draw on one another's strengths, Ross added.

　　The falling cost of solar technology illustrates the gains available to businesses investing in clean energy. In an analysis published on Aug 3, the International Energy Agency said global solar-module prices fell by about 50 percent between 2023 and 2025, lowering equipment costs for solar projects.

　　China is a major supplier: its solar photovoltaic output increased 13-fold over the past decade, with export markets absorbing around 40 percent of that increase, the agency said.

　　Galloway acknowledged that China's high-end exports challenged established Western industries. Recalling Britain's former industrial dominance, he questioned why it should be considered shocking that other countries could make products better and cheaper.

　　He sees a contradiction between professed support for markets and opposition to the outcome when consumers choose Chinese goods. Those who declare "the customer is king" change their position when another country's products succeed. "Then they suddenly become protectionists," he said.

　　Shipley also questioned tariff protection. Drawing on her experience in government, she said such measures can disrupt markets and supply chains and did not work over the medium term.