China Proposes Solar Tech Export Restrictions Under Security Review

Chinese government proposes export controls on 12 photovoltaic technologies, targeting national security concerns without specifying countries or companies.

China's Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Science and Technology proposed export restrictions on 12 photovoltaic technologies under Joint Announcement No. 48 of 2026. The measures, published October 16, require public consultation until November 15. They target specific solar manufacturing processes and materials—such as perovskite-silicon tandem cells with 30% efficiency, silicon wafers under 70 micrometers, and polysilicon production lines over 30,000 metric tons annually—while explicitly avoiding country or company-level restrictions. The rules aim to address national security concerns for aerospace and defense applications but remain effective only after consultation closes.

This friction item risks supply chain disruptions for developing nations if implemented, as it could raise costs for solar technology adoption. The restrictions are currently in consultation phase and do not yet apply to any specific entities. The source confirms the announcement year as 2026, not a typo. A reader must consult the full report for technical thresholds and implementation details.

Source: pv magazine