US hits solar panel imports: tariffs exceed 3,500%

The United States has announced record-high tariffs on solar equipment imports from four Southeast Asian countries — Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia and Thailand. The decision was made by the US Department of Commerce after a lengthy investigation that revealed numerous trade violations, including dumping and state subsidies.

The investigation found that foreign manufacturers were selling solar equipment on the US market at prices below cost, using opaque state support. The harshest punishment was given to Cambodia, which refused to cooperate with US investigators. For it, tariffs exceeded an unprecedented 3,521%.

Companies from Vietnam also faced serious financial constraints — tariff rates reached 395.9%. Manufacturers from Thailand will pay up to 375.2%, and from Malaysia - 34.4%. At the same time, individual companies received individual tariff rates: for example, Jinko Solar from Vietnam - up to 245%, and Trina Solar from Thailand - up to 375%.

These countries played a key role in the supply of solar modules to the US: last year they accounted for 77% of all imports of the relevant equipment. Therefore, the new measures could significantly change the balance of power in the American renewable energy market.

The American authorities expect that the introduced duties will contribute to the growth of domestic production of solar equipment and reduce dependence on imports, especially from countries with questionable state support. However, the final decision on the introduction of these duties must be made by the US International Trade Commission - it must determine whether imports really pose a threat to the domestic manufacturer. Its conclusions are expected within the next month.

Meanwhile, some large manufacturers, including JA Solar, are already considering options for moving their production facilities to countries not yet covered by the new restrictions. Potential destinations include Indonesia, Laos and other regions outside Asia. Experts do not rule out that if similar dumping schemes are discovered, the US may extend the duties to these new locations.