The U.S. has finalized high tariffs on most solar cell imports from Southeast Asia, targeting Chinese manufacturers operating in Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, Reuters reports.
The tariffs stem from a trade case filed by Hanwha Qcells, First Solar, and others who allege that Chinese companies were dumping subsidized solar products at prices that undercut U.S. producers. The duties range widely, with Cambodia-based producers facing rates above 3,500% for failing to cooperate with the investigation.
Products from companies like Jinko Solar and Trina Solar face tariffs of 41.56% and 375.19%, respectively, depending on country of origin. “These are very strong results,” said Tim Brightbill, attorney for the U.S. manufacturing coalition, adding that the penalties would address long-standing unfair trade practices. Imports from the four targeted countries, which made up the bulk of U.S. solar supply last year, have already dropped significantly as a result of the investigation.
Opponents, including the Solar Energy Industries Association, argue the tariffs will raise prices for U.S. solar manufacturers that rely on imported cells. These facilities have expanded since the introduction of clean energy subsidies in 2022. The International Trade Commission is expected to vote in June on whether the industry was harmed by the imports, which would finalize the tariffs.
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