Friday, June 13, 2014: Even as the US Government recently plugged what it calls a significant loophole by imposing duties on Chinese modules, rather than only on cells and ingots manufactured there, Indian solar companies are taking this as a big opportunity to grab the limelight. They are seeing an opening into the lucrative US market long dominated by Chinese equipment.
Earlier in 2012, the US Department of Commerce had imposed tariffs on Chinese-made cells and ingots that forced many Chinese manufacturers to shift camp to Taiwan, although they did continue making modules in China. However, under the new directive that comes into force immediately, now even the modules will be subjected to duties resulting in Chinese solar modules becoming more expensive in the US. This will gradually shift attention to countries like India who can step up and grab the opportunity to promote its own products. Many believe, the level-playing field policy will help Indian manufacturers cement their position in the US market.
Although the majority believes that the directive will certainly help Indian products, some insist that this may not bring an opportunity to the Indian manufacturers, but instead, will benefit manufacturers from countries like Taiwan and Korea.