JAKARTA – China plans to tighten export controls on solar panel manufacturing technology by proposing a ban on several strategic technologies.
China’s Ministry of Commerce has proposed adding 12 photovoltaic technologies to its export control list.
The government stated that these technologies are increasingly used in sensitive sectors, including aerospace and national defense, requiring stricter oversight.
As quoted by Reuters, the proposal is part of a revised export control policy that also includes artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology.
China stated that this policy aims to prevent misuse of technology while maintaining international cooperation in science and technology.
Technologies included in the proposed ban cover the production of thin wafers, perovskite and tandem solar cells, and large-scale polysilicon using the fluidized-bed method. These technologies are critical for improving production efficiency and reducing the cost of manufacturing solar panels.
China also proposed export restrictions on advanced solar cell manufacturing technologies, such as TOPCon, heterojunction (HJT), and back contact (XBC).
Unlike the technologies proposed for a complete ban, the export of these three technologies will not be entirely prohibited but will be subject to stricter oversight.
Tesla Potentially Faces Obstacles
The plan could affect foreign companies that rely on Chinese suppliers to build solar panel production facilities. Reuters reported in March 2026 that Tesla explored purchasing US$2.9 billion worth of solar power equipment from Chinese companies to support its business development in the US.
Export restrictions could complicate access to advanced manufacturing equipment and processes needed by companies to increase production capacity.
India faces similar challenges. The country is striving to boost domestic solar panel production and reduce reliance on China. However, limited access to manufacturing technology could hinder efforts to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of local producers.
The Chinese government has opened public consultation on the proposed export controls until November 15, 2026. Before the official list is updated, exporters must register certain technology transfers abroad according to transitional provisions.
This article was translated from Indonesian using AI.
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