US Opens Anti-Dumping Investigation Into Lao Solar Cells
The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued a preliminary affirmative determination that crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells from Laos are being sold in the United States at less than fair value, triggering an anti-dumping investigation covering January–June 2025. The agency also found critical circumstances in part and postponed its final determination while extending provisional measures. This preliminary ruling means importers of solar cells and modules from Laos face potential retroactive duties and increased compliance scrutiny during the investigation period.
Photo: Kristina Kutleša / Pexels# US Opens Anti-Dumping Investigation Into Lao Solar Cells
On April 28, 2026, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced a preliminary affirmative determination that crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells, whether or not assembled into modules, from the Lao People's Democratic Republic are being—or are likely to be—sold in the United States at less than fair value (LTFV). The investigation covers the period of January 1, 2025, through June 30, 2025.
Who is Affected
This determination impacts:
- Importers and distributors of solar cells and photovoltaic modules sourced from Laos
- E-commerce merchants selling solar panels or related energy products that contain Lao-origin cells
- Freight forwarders and logistics providers handling these shipments into U.S. ports
- OEMs and system integrators that incorporate Lao-manufactured solar cells into finished products
HS Chapter 85 (Electrical machinery and apparatus) covers photovoltaic cells and modules, though the source does not specify the exact tariff line.
Critical Circumstances and Provisional Measures
Commerce also made a preliminary determination of critical circumstances in part, which allows the agency to assess provisional duties—including cash deposits or bond postings—retroactively to cover the POI. This means:
"The U.S. Department of Commerce… preliminarily determines that crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells… from the Lao People's Democratic Republic are being, or are likely to be, sold in the United States at less than fair value."
(Source: Federal Register, April 28, 2026)
Importers must prepare to post estimated anti-dumping duties on entries during and potentially before the investigation's formal conclusion.
Postponement of Final Determination
Commerce has postponed its final anti-dumping determination and extended provisional measures, meaning the investigation will continue beyond the preliminary phase. This provides time for interested parties—including foreign producers, U.S. importers, and trade associations—to submit comments and request hearings before a final ruling is issued.
What This Means for Shippers
If you import solar cells or assembled modules from Laos, expect increased duties and regulatory scrutiny. Review your landed-cost calculations and tariff classifications, and prepare documentation showing fair-value pricing. For detailed guidance on how anti-dumping duties affect your total import cost, see customs-invoice.com/landed-cost.
