China Files WTO Complaint Against India Over ICT Tariffs and Solar Subsidies

China has filed a complaint at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) against India over tariffs on information and communications technology (ICT) products and subsidies given to domestic solar manufacturers.  

The Chinese commerce ministry confirmed the filing in a statement issued on Friday, December 19, 2025. 

Grounds Cited by China 

The ministry said India’s tariffs and subsidy policies provide an unfair advantage to local industries and affect Chinese exporters. It stated that the measures do not align with WTO rules and obligations.  

China has asked India to correct the policies and comply with commitments made under global trade agreements. 

ICT Tariffs Under Dispute 

A major part of the case relates to India’s tariffs on ICT products, which include electronic components and communication equipment.  

China has argued that these duties limit access to the Indian market for overseas suppliers. The WTO filing seeks consultations, which is the first step in the dispute settlement process. 

Solar Manufacturing Support Questioned 

China has also raised objections to India’s subsidies for photovoltaic manufacturing. These incentives are for building domestic capacity in solar equipment production.  

According to the Chinese commerce ministry, the subsidies disadvantage foreign manufacturers, including Chinese firms active in solar supply chains. 

Telecom Tariff Issues Raised 

Separately, the Chinese commerce ministry said it has flagged concerns over India’s telecom tariff practices.  

It described certain practices in the sector as incorrect and called on Indian authorities to address them. The ministry did not say whether these concerns would be taken to the WTO. 

Trade Relations Backdrop 

The WTO case comes amid ongoing differences between the two countries on trade and industrial policy.  

India’s tariff and subsidy measures have been designed to support local manufacturing, while China has raised repeated objections to their impact on cross-border trade. 

Business Visa Changes  

Earlier in December, India eased its business visa rules for Chinese professionals. The changes were aimed at addressing long delays that had disrupted operations and led to output losses worth billions of dollars due to a lack of technical staff in certain sectors. 

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Conclusion 

China’s complaint brings India’s ICT tariffs and solar subsidies before the WTO dispute process. The matter will now move to consultations between the two sides, which will determine the next steps in the case. 

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