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Trump Imposes 15% Tariff and Minimum Prices on Polysilicon Imports

The proclamation aims to rebuild U.S. polysilicon capacity to blunt China’s market power.

Overview

  • The proclamation was signed Thursday and sets a 15% ad valorem tariff on polysilicon derivatives with remedies to begin 120 days later on December 4, 2026.
  • The order creates a minimum import price program with floors of $21 per kg for polysilicon, $100 per kg for ingots and wafers, $0.22 per watt for cells, and $0.38 per watt for modules.
  • The White House authorized Commerce to offer incentives for onshoring polysilicon and related plants and gave Customs authority to block suspected pre‑effective‑date stockpiling.
  • Industry analysts say the combined tariff and price floors will raise U.S. module costs roughly $0.10 per watt and push up PPA prices while helping U.S. and non‑polysilicon producers; U.S. solar stocks rose on the news.
  • The action targets China’s dominant role in polysilicon — estimated at about 93.5% of global output — and has prompted requests from South Korea and exporters for consultations or carve‑outs as supply chains are reassessed.