US to launch probe into solar imports from India Laos Indonesia
Published: 2025-08-30
Industry Insights from Next Move Strategy Consulting
The U.S. International Trade Commission on Friday voted to launch an investigation into whether solar panel imports from India, Laos, and Indonesia are harming domestic manufacturers, a move that could potentially lead to tariffs on those products.
US Solar Makers Win Early Victory in Trade Case
The three-member panel’s unanimous decision marks a boost for domestic solar manufacturers, who argue that Chinese firms operating in India, Laos, and Indonesia benefit from unfair government subsidies and sell their products in the U.S. below production costs. American producers contend the move is essential to safeguard billions of dollars already invested in U.S. solar factories.
Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing Responds to ITC Decision
“Today’s ITC ruling validates our petitions, showing that U.S. solar manufacturers are being undercut and damaged by unfairly traded imports. Companies owned by China and others operating in Laos, Indonesia, and India are exploiting the system with unfair practices that threaten U.S. jobs and investments,” said Tim Brightbill, lead counsel for the Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade and partner at Wiley Rein LLP.
Trade Case Origin and Timeline of Investigations
The alliance, a coalition of U.S. solar manufacturers that includes First Solar and Hanwha’s Qcells, filed the case in July. Imports from India, Indonesia, and Laos surged to $1.6 billion in 2023, up sharply from $289 million in 2022, according to the group. Many of these shipments are thought to have shifted from countries already facing U.S. tariffs on Southeast Asian solar exports.
The U.S. Department of Commerce will carry forward its investigations, with preliminary determinations on countervailing, or anti-subsidy, duties expected around October 10, and on antidumping duties around December 24.
Conclusion
The ITC’s decision underscores the growing tension between global trade practices and the need to strengthen U.S. solar manufacturing. As the Commerce Department moves forward with its investigations, the outcome will play a critical role in shaping the competitive landscape of the solar industry. For domestic producers, safeguarding investments is not only about protecting factories and jobs but also about securing the foundation for future innovations in renewable energy. A strong and fair market will enable the U.S. to advance toward a cleaner energy future and support breakthroughs in sun-powered technologies that drive sustainable growth.
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