China Solar Tech Export Curbs Spark Global Concerns

China is moving to implement export controls on 12 key technologies essential for solar equipment production. The Ministry of Commerce has proposed adding these photovoltaic technologies to the national export-control list, citing national security concerns. Officials believe these technologies are increasingly being used in sensitive sectors such as aerospace and national defense, necessitating greater oversight.

This proposed policy shift could jeopardize the expansion plans of US-based companies, including Tesla, which are looking to increase their production capabilities within the United States. Analysts suggest China aims to maintain its dominance in the solar manufacturing sector, especially as countries like India seek to develop their domestic industries and reduce reliance on Chinese imports.

Exporters are now required to register certain overseas technology transfers while the export-control catalogue undergoes formal revision. The public consultation period for this proposal is scheduled to conclude on November 15. Technologies slated for potential bans include those used for thin wafers, perovskite and tandem solar cells, and large-scale fluidized-bed polysilicon production.

Additionally, China may impose restrictions, though not outright prohibitions, on advanced solar cell manufacturing technologies like TOPCon, HJT, and XBC. The ministry stated these measures are designed to guard against risks of technologies becoming uncontrollable or improperly disseminated, while still preserving normal international scientific and technological exchanges.