China has proposed new export controls on 12 technologies used in solar equipment manufacturing, citing national security concerns in a move that could affect global renewable energy investment and efforts by other countries to develop their own solar industries.
The proposal, announced by China’s Ministry of Commerce, forms part of a broader review of technology exports that also covers artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology. Chinese officials say tighter oversight is needed because certain solar technologies are increasingly relevant to sensitive sectors, including aerospace and national defence.
Advanced Solar Technologies in Focus
Under the proposal, China would prohibit exports of selected technologies used to manufacture thin silicon wafers, perovskite and tandem solar cells, as well as large-scale fluidized-bed processes for producing polysilicon, a key raw material used in solar panels.
Perovskite solar technology has the potential to improve energy-conversion efficiency, while tandem cells combine different materials, such as perovskite and silicon, to capture a broader range of sunlight. Fluidized-bed production can also offer cost and energy-efficiency advantages over conventional polysilicon manufacturing methods.
Other advanced solar-cell manufacturing technologies, including TOPCon, HJT and XBC, would face restrictions rather than a complete export ban.
US and India Could Face Challenges
The proposed measures could complicate plans by overseas companies seeking to expand solar manufacturing outside China. US companies, including Tesla, could face additional challenges in accessing certain manufacturing technologies as they develop domestic production capacity.
India could also be affected as it seeks to strengthen its domestic solar industry and reduce dependence on Chinese technology. Beijing has previously imposed restrictions on some solar-manufacturing technology exports to India.
China’s position is particularly significant because it holds a dominant role in the global solar manufacturing supply chain. Restrictions on manufacturing expertise could make it more difficult for competing producers to establish advanced production facilities and close the technological gap.
Consultation Continues Until November 15
China has opened a public consultation on the proposed export-control changes, which is scheduled to close on November 15, 2026. In the meantime, exporters are required to register certain overseas technology transfers pending formal updates to the export-control catalogue.
The proposal does not amount to a blanket ban on finished solar panels. Instead, it focuses on technologies and manufacturing processes that could influence how solar equipment is produced internationally.
The final scope and implementation of the measures will determine their impact on global solar investment, renewable energy supply chains and countries seeking to diversify their manufacturing capabilities.
The move highlights the growing importance of technological expertise in international trade, as governments increasingly seek to protect strategic industries while balancing national security concerns with global cooperation in clean energy development.
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