US Solar Manufacturers Seek New Tariffs on Imports From India, Southeast Asia - The Diplomat – Asia-Pacific Current Affairs Magazine
Published February 07, 2026
US Solar Manufacturers Call for New Tariffs on Imports from India and Southeast Asia
In a significant move that could reshape the landscape of the solar manufacturing industry in the United States, domestic solar manufacturers are advocating for the imposition of new tariffs on imports from India and Southeast Asian countries. This request is primarily driven by concerns over unfair trade practices and the need to bolster local production capabilities.
The push for tariffs comes in the wake of the Biden administration's efforts to expand the domestic solar supply chain. American manufacturers argue that the influx of imported solar products, particularly from countries like India, Vietnam, and Malaysia, has undermined their competitiveness. They claim that these imports are often subsidized, allowing foreign companies to sell their products at prices that American manufacturers cannot match.
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), the U.S. solar market has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with installed capacity reaching over 100 gigawatts (GW) by the end of 2021. This growth has been fueled by federal incentives, state-level renewable energy mandates, and increasing consumer demand for clean energy solutions. However, domestic manufacturers contend that without protective tariffs, their ability to compete and innovate will be severely hampered.
In a recent statement, the American Solar Manufacturers Association (ASMA) highlighted that the current trade policies have led to a significant decline in the U.S. solar manufacturing sector. The association reported that the share of domestic production of solar cells and modules has dropped from 40% in 2010 to less than 10% today. They argue that this trend poses a threat not only to jobs in the manufacturing sector but also to the broader goal of achieving energy independence.
In response to these concerns, several U.S. lawmakers have expressed support for the manufacturers' call for new tariffs. Some have proposed legislation that would impose additional duties on solar imports from specific countries. This would align with previous measures taken by the U.S. government, such as the tariffs implemented in 2018 on solar cells and modules from China, which were aimed at protecting domestic manufacturers from unfair competition.
However, the potential introduction of new tariffs has sparked a debate within the renewable energy sector. While some manufacturers support the move, others, including developers and installers, warn that such tariffs could lead to increased costs for solar projects. They argue that higher prices for imported solar products could ultimately slow down the transition to renewable energy and hinder the growth of the solar market.
Industry analysts note that the situation is further complicated by ongoing supply chain challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Global disruptions have led to shortages of critical components, including solar panels, which has already driven up prices. The introduction of new tariffs could exacerbate these challenges, potentially leading to a slowdown in solar installations across the country.
In light of these complexities, some stakeholders are advocating for a balanced approach that addresses the concerns of domestic manufacturers while also ensuring that the solar industry remains competitive and accessible. This could involve targeted support for U.S. manufacturers, such as grants or tax incentives, rather than broad tariffs that could impact the entire market.
As the U.S. government evaluates the request for new tariffs, the outcome will likely have significant implications for the future of solar manufacturing and deployment in the country. The decision will play a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape of the solar industry and determining the pace at which the U.S. can transition to a cleaner energy future.
In conclusion, the call for new tariffs on solar imports from India and Southeast Asia reflects the ongoing tension between domestic manufacturing interests and the broader goals of expanding renewable energy adoption. As stakeholders continue to navigate this complex landscape, the future of the U.S. solar market remains uncertain.