US opens final phase of anti-dumping probe on solar cells from India, Indonesia, Laos
The US International Trade Commission has scheduled the final phase of anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations into crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells and modules from India, Indonesia, and Laos (Investigation Nos. 701-TA-772-774 and 731-TA-1756-1758). The Department of Commerce has preliminarily determined these imports to be subsidized and sold at less-than-fair-value. The Commission will now determine whether US domestic solar-cell manufacturers face material injury or threat thereof. Products covered include those in HS subheadings 8541.42.00 and 8541.43.00.
Photo: Adriel Arevalo / PexelsThe US International Trade Commission has scheduled the final phase of anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations into crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells and modules from India, Indonesia, and Laos, according to a notice published May 13, 2026, in the Federal Register.
Investigation scope and preliminary findings
The investigation covers crystalline silicon photovoltaic products classified under HS subheadings 8541.42.00 and 8541.43.00 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States, "whether or not assembled into modules." According to the Federal Register notice:
The Department of Commerce preliminarily determined [these products] to be subsidized and sold at less-than-fair-value.
The formal investigation numbers are 701-TA-772-774 (countervailing duty) and 731-TA-1756-1758 (anti-dumping), reflecting parallel investigations into both subsidy and dumping allegations.
Who is affected
Exporters, importers, and distributors of crystalline silicon solar cells and photovoltaic modules originating from India, Indonesia, and Laos will face duties if the Commission determines material injury or threat thereof. US domestic solar-cell manufacturers have initiated or supported these cases. The final phase will determine whether imports cause "material injury or threatened material injury, or [whether] the establishment of an industry in the United States is materially retarded," per the Tariff Act of 1930.
Importers should monitor the Commission's final determination timeline. Anti-dumping and countervailing duties are typically applied retroactively from the preliminary phase, so affected shipments may already be subject to provisional duties pending the final ruling.
What this means for shippers
If you import solar cells (HS 8541.42.00) or photovoltaic modules (HS 8541.43.00) from India, Indonesia, or Laos, final duties are likely within months. File entries now under bond to avoid payment until duties are finalized, and verify your supplier's country of origin and manufacturing process—transshipment may trigger rules-of-origin penalties. Check the Commission's schedule for the final phase determination date and review landed-cost estimates immediately, as duties may be substantial and retroactive.
