-- The US issued preliminary anti-dumping determinations on crystalline silicon photovoltaic imports from Laos, Indonesia, and India, imposing steep tariff rates that could reshape trade flows in the solar supply chain and bolster domestic manufacturers, RBC Capital Markets strategists said on Friday.
RBC analysts said the US Department of Commerce set weighted-average dumping margins at 123.04% for India, 35.17% for Indonesia, and 22.46% for Laos.
The ruling follows earlier preliminary countervailing duty findings in late February, which identified subsidy rates ranging from about 80% to 126%.
Together, the anti-dumping and countervailing duty cases raise the potential cost of imports from the three countries, which, despite recent tariff measures that have already curbed volumes, still account for over 80% of US solar panel imports.
RBC said the move could be supportive for First Solar, given reduced competitive pressure from Southeast Asian and Indian module suppliers if the duties are finalized at similar levels.
The Department's final determinations are due no later than September 5, 2026. Following that, the US International Trade Commission will issue its final injury determination about 45 days later.
However, RBC analysts said the case remains subject to change as the Department proceeds with verification and final margin calculations, but the preliminary findings signal sustained regulatory pressure on key offshore solar supply hubs.