Zero: The Climate Race US fossil fuels vs. Chinese clean tech, who’s winning on exports?
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Oct 13, 2025 
In this discussion, Akshat Rathi, a climate and energy journalist for Bloomberg Green, explores the dramatic competition between US fossil fuel exports and China's booming clean-tech market. He reveals how China is currently winning the race, driven by substantial demand for its technologies in developing nations. Rathi breaks down the differences between 'petrostates' and 'electrostates,' and dives into how China's domestic use impacts its export figures. The conversation also touches on the growing role of renewables in energy generation, hinting at a shift in the global energy landscape.
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China Wins The Export Comparison
- China clearly outcompetes the U.S. in clean-tech exports when compared directly to U.S. oil and gas exports.
- This comparison reframes the geopolitical narrative as petrostate versus electrostate.
Electrification As A Strategic Bet
- An electrostate bets on electricity and built industries around electrified growth rather than fossil fuels.
- China fits the electrostate model, aiming to make electricity-driven sectors the export engine of its economy.
2025 Cleantech Surpasses U.S. Fossil Exports
- In 2025 through July, China exported roughly $120 billion in clean-tech while U.S. oil and gas exports were about $80 billion.
- China even set an August record, showing rapid momentum in clean-tech exports.