US Trade Petition Fuels Uncertainty for Indian Solar Exports: Indian Manufacturers Respond
The Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade, which includes major players such as First Solar, Qcells, Talon PV, and Mission Solar, submitted a petition to the US Commerce Department requesting tariffs on solar panel imports from India, Indonesia, and Laos.
July 19, 2025. By Abha Rustagi
The Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade, which includes major players such as First Solar, Qcells, Talon PV, and Mission Solar, has submitted a petition to the US Commerce Department requesting tariffs on solar panel imports from India, Indonesia, and Laos. The group alleges that manufacturers in these countries are undercutting US producers by selling products at unfairly low prices, aided by government subsidies.
The petition marks the latest attempt by the domestic solar manufacturing industry to seek trade protections in the wake of substantial investments encouraged by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. The law provided billions of dollars in tax incentives to scale up local solar panel production and reduce dependence on Chinese supply chains.
The US Commerce Department has 20 days to decide whether to initiate an investigation. If it proceeds, the case could take about a year to result in finalised tariffs.
Vinay Rustagi, Chief Business Officer of India-based Premier Energies, said the petition adds further uncertainty to an already challenging export environment. “This investigation comes on top of ongoing uncertainty over tariffs on Indian exports and additional levies proposed on BRIC nations. The US modules market remains an attractive prospect in the long run, but the short-term picture is becoming murky because of these uncertainties,” Rustagi said.Indian solar players have responded to the petition with a mix of caution and confidence.
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“Avaada operates with robust transparency, efficient production models, and long-term value creation in mind. Our products and pricing reflect global competitiveness, economies of scale, and a strong commitment to quality. Any concerns or allegations related to pricing practices by Indian companies should be assessed through a transparent and evidence-based process,” said Prashant Choubey, President – Business Development, Avaada Group. “It is important to distinguish between globally competitive pricing driven by operational efficiency, scale, and market strategy—and instances of proven unfair trade practices. Indian manufacturers, including those in the solar sector, are committed to compliance with international norms and contributing to sustainable global energy goals. As far as Avaada is concerned, we remain fully compliant with international trade norms, certifications, transparent traceability, and work to build trust-based, long-term global relationships,” he added.
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In response to the petition, Rayzon Solar emphasised its commitment to transparent and fair trade. “Rayzon Solar respects the right of every country to look into trade practices. We believe in fair, open, and rule-based international trade. We're sure that our practices match up with US and global standards. Rayzon Solar competes by coming up with new ideas, delivering top-notch products, and working efficiently. We'll keep working with the relevant authorities. We encourage open talks to make sure these trade actions don't slow down worldwide efforts to adopt clean energy," said Chirag Nakrani, Managing Director, Rayzon Solar Ltd.Petitioners argue that Chinese-owned firms have relocated manufacturing to countries like Indonesia and Laos to circumvent earlier US tariffs targeting Southeast Asia. They also accuse Indian companies of dumping low-cost solar modules into the American market, threatening the viability of US-based manufacturing.
Imports from India, Indonesia, and Laos totaled USD 1.6 billion in 2023, up sharply from USD 289 million in 2022, according to the petition. While the US has significantly expanded its domestic solar capacity, it still relies heavily on imported panels to meet demand.
If new tariffs are imposed, they could significantly disrupt Indian manufacturers’ export strategies.
“Avaada remains committed to contributing to the global energy transition, including in the US, which is one of the most strategic and dynamic clean energy markets for us. While potential tariffs may influence short-term cost structures and trade flows, our strategy is built on long-term vision, product differentiation, economies of scale, and high-efficiency technologies like TOPCon,” said Choubey.
He added that the company is working on partnerships, localised solutions, and long-term sales relationships in the US to navigate policy changes. “Avaada is also expanding presence in multiple markets to de-risk export exposure and ensure sustainable global growth,” he noted.
Looking at the broader picture, Choubey expressed confidence in the strength of the US-India clean energy relationship. “India and the US share a strong and growing partnership, grounded in shared goals and strategic alignment. While trade disputes can emerge in any maturing sector, we believe constructive engagement and a rules-based approach should prevail over time. Allegations should not overshadow the immense potential for US-India collaboration across manufacturing, supply chain resilience, and technology co-development,” he said.
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