US Set to Impose New Duties on Solar Imports From Southeast Asia

The United States announced on Monday, April 21, plans to impose tariffs of up to 3,521% on solar panels imported from Southeast Asia, targeting what officials describe as unfair trade practices by Chinese firms operating through regional subsidiaries.

The proposed tariffs—pending ratification by the International Trade Commission in June—follow a year-long investigation spurred by American manufacturers including Hanwha Qcells, First Solar, and Convalt Energy.

The companies accused solar exporters from Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam of receiving illegal Chinese subsidies and undercutting U.S. prices through dumping practices.

The Commerce Department found that several firms in these countries, including major Chinese players Jinko Solar and Trina Solar, were benefiting from prohibited transnational subsidies. Jinko Solar’s products from Malaysia could face a 40% tariff, while its exports from Vietnam may be subject to a 245% duty.

Trina Solar could see duties of over 375% on goods from Thailand and more than 200% on Vietnamese shipments.

If approved, the penalties would mark one of the most aggressive U.S. trade actions in the clean energy sector, echoing earlier tariff efforts under the Trump administration. In 2023, the U.S. imported $11.9 billion worth of solar products from the four targeted nations.

The ITC’s final ruling in June will determine whether the duties go into effect.