US Commerce Department Finalises High Tariffs on Solar Imports from India, Indonesia and Laos

The US Commerce Department has finalised steep duties on solar imports from India, Indonesia, and Laos, as per a Reuters report. The decision follows findings that producers in these countries dumped cheap solar products in the US and benefited from unfair government subsidies. 

Details of the Imposed Duties 

The US Commerce Department assigned anti-dumping margins of 123.04% for Indian producers, 94.36% for Indonesian producers, and 65.43% for producers from Laos.  

Additionally, countervailing duty rates were set at 126.09% for Indian producers, between 73.2% and 173.7% for Indonesian producers, and between 82.03% and 153.67% for Lao producers. 

Background of the Trade Investigation 

The trade investigation was initiated by the Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade, which includes US solar manufacturers such as First Solar, Hanwha Qcells, and Mission Solar Energy.  

Tim Brightbill, lead attorney for the Alliance, stated that the final determinations are crucial for enforcing trade laws and restoring fair competition for US solar manufacturers. 

Read More: Argentina Commits to Easing Entry Barriers for Indian Pharma Sector! 

Upcoming Decision by the US International Trade Commission 

The US International Trade Commission is scheduled to make a final determination on October 14, 2023, regarding whether the imports materially injured or threatened to injure domestic manufacturers. If the commission votes affirmatively, the Commerce Department is expected to issue final duty orders in November. 

Historical Context of Solar Trade Disputes 

This case is part of a long-standing trade dispute over solar imports. The US first imposed anti-dumping and anti-subsidy duties on Chinese solar products in 2012, which led manufacturers to shift production to other Asian countries. 

Conclusion 

The US Commerce Department has imposed anti-dumping and countervailing duties on solar imports from India, Indonesia, and Laos. Anti-dumping margins range from 65.43% to 123.04%, while countervailing duties range from 73.2% to 173.7%. 

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