US Solar Cell Imports Decline as Global PV Supply Chains Shift

U.S. solar cell imports dropped significantly in the first half of 2026, reflecting the impact of changing trade policies, growing domestic manufacturing capacity and ongoing inventory adjustments.

According to U.S. customs data, the country imported 8.19GW of solar cells from January to June 2026, down 49% from 16.18GW during the same period in 2025.

Import Demand Weakens Amid Policy Changes

U.S. solar cell imports had increased steadily from early 2024 through mid-2025, reaching a record monthly high of 3.52GW in June 2025.

However, import volumes declined during the second half of 2025 and continued to weaken in early 2026. The sharp reduction in imports highlights a major shift in the U.S. solar supply chain, driven by stricter trade measures, increased local production and efforts to reduce existing inventories.

Supply Sources Become More Diversified

In the first six months of 2026, the top five suppliers of solar cells to the U.S. market were South Korea (2.60GW), Thailand (1.63GW), Ethiopia (1.06GW), Malaysia (785MW) and Kenya (468MW).

Compared with previous years, when Southeast Asian countries dominated U.S. solar imports, the supply landscape is becoming more diversified.

Trade actions targeting several Asian manufacturing hubs have encouraged suppliers to explore alternative production locations. Emerging exporters, including Ethiopia, the Philippines and Nigeria, have started increasing shipments to the U.S. market.

Trade Policies Continue to Reshape Global Solar Supply Chains

The U.S. solar industry is facing increasing uncertainty as trade investigations and tariff measures reshape global supply routes.

Following concerns over potential tariff circumvention, U.S. solar manufacturers have requested investigations into certain emerging export markets. Meanwhile, new Section 232 trade measures on polysilicon-related products are expected to introduce additional tariffs on imported wafers, solar cells and modules containing polysilicon.

Global Solar Manufacturers Adjust Strategies

The changing U.S. import landscape shows that solar supply chains are moving toward greater regional diversification and localization.

Manufacturers targeting the U.S. market are increasingly focusing on overseas production strategies, local partnerships and supply chain adjustments to manage policy risks and maintain market access.