MAJOR Chinese solar panel makers yesterday protested over punitive tariffs the European Union plans to levy on Chinese-made photovoltaic products.

Protests at more than 40 solar companies broke out ahead of EU member states voting on proposed anti-dumping duties ranging from 37 percent to 68 percent today. The provisional rates will be effective from June 6 if the proposal is passed.

Representatives of three solar panel giants, Yingli Green Energy Holdings Co, Trina Solar Ltd and Canadian Solar Inc, held a press conference yesterday in Beijing, lashing out at the EU penalties and calling for free trade.

In a joint statement, the three said any market restrictive measures would hurt China's solar industry, but would also hinder solar application and development in Europe and have a major negative impact on the EU's economy and employment.

A report by German consulting firm Prognos said the duties could lead to job losses of more than 200,000 in Europe over three years.