New regulation on imports of solar panel production

The Ministry of Trade has expanded its surveillance of imports of photovoltaic cells and blue wafers, which are critical for solar panel production. The new regulation was published in the Official Gazette dated July 17, 2025.

CUSTOMS VALUE THRESHOLD FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS HAS BEEN RAISED

With the amendment to the Communiqué on the Implementation of Import Surveillance, the unit customs value threshold for photovoltaic cell imports, previously below $85/kg , has been raised to $170/kg . As a result, cell imports with declared prices below $170 will now be subject to a surveillance certificate.

It was reported that the new regulation will come into force as of September 17, 2025 .

Blue Wafer Products Also Under Surveillance

A similar regulation has been introduced for blue wafer products used in solar cell production. Previously, surveillance for imports under $85/kg has been expanded to include all imports under $170/kg .

SURVEILLANCE DOCUMENT REQUIREMENT CONTINUES

Imports of products subject to surveillance will only be permitted with a surveillance certificate issued by the Ministry of Trade's General Directorate of Imports . Administrative sanctions will apply to imports made without such a certificate.

Authorities say the surveillance practice aims to prevent low price declarations , ensure fair competition in the domestic market , and protect domestic production .

HOW WILL IT IMPACT THE SECTOR?

Energy sector representatives state that this step will have a protective effect on domestic producers, especially given the high volume of imports of low-cost solar cells and chips from China. However, it is expected that costs will increase for importers , which will be reflected in renewable energy investments and equipment prices . It is emphasized that the regulation was implemented to encourage domestic production , prevent unfair competition , and take precautions against the risk of dumping .

Source: News Center