The US is considering delaying the collection of planned tariffs on imported solar products made with polysilicon by up to four months, a move that could trigger a surge in imports before the duties take effect, multiple news outlets reported on Thursday.
US officials are reportedly weighing a 90- to 120-day phase-in period for the tariffs, which US President Donald Trump could announce as early as Thursday. The proposal remains under discussion and could change.
The new measures would impose minimum import prices and tariffs of at least 15% on polysilicon, as well as solar wafers, cells and panels made from the material. Polysilicon is a key ingredient in most solar panels.
A temporary delay would give renewable energy developers an opportunity to import lower-cost equipment before the tariffs raise prices. However, US manufacturers argue that postponing the levies would allow a wave of cheap imports to enter the market, undermining the administration's efforts to rebuild domestic production.
The proposed tariffs are part of a broader strategy to expand US production of polysilicon and other solar manufacturing components after China became the world's dominant supplier over the past decade. The administration is also expected to introduce incentives aimed at encouraging companies to build or expand factories in the US.
The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment from.