The United States has announced that it will allow the import of solar panels from Thailand at zero tariff for 24 months, with similar moves set for solar panels imported from Malaysia, Cambodia and Vietnam.
Imports from Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam currently account for more than 50% of the US solar panel supplies and 80% of imports. In 2021, Thailand exported USD 1.07 billion worth of solar cells to the US, which accounts for 49% of the Southeast Asian country’s total solar cell exports.
The announcement comes as part of a package of measures to accelerate clean energy product development in the United States. The tariff waiver will serve as a bridge while US manufacturing capabilities develop.
Biden’s action comes in response to a probe launched by the US Department of Commerce into whether Southeast Asian solar cell manufacturers are using parts made in China that would normally be subject to a tariff.
(Sources: Bangkok Post; Thailand Business News)
