China files WTO solar subsidy complaint against India

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email
World Trade Organization
China’s complaint to the WTO challenges alleged subsidies of India’s solar industry. Image: World Trade Organization

The Chinese government has lodged a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against India’s alleged subsidisation of its PV industry.

In a statement on December 19, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced that it had filed a case with the WTO, challenging tariff and subsidy measures related to India’s photovoltaic and information and communication industries.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

The complaint alleges several violations of WTO obligations, including the national treatment principle, which it said amounted to import-substitution subsidies prohibited by the WTO.

The ministry said these measures provided an “unfair” competitive advantage to India’s own industry and harmed China’s interests. It urged India to abide by its WTO commitments and “immediately correct” its wrong practices.

The complaint is the second by China against India this year, following a separate one lodged with the WTO in October relating to India’s battery manufacturing industry.

It highlights the growing tensions between rival manufacturing blocs as they race to develop domestic manufacturing capacity and navigate international trade rules.

India’s PV manufacturing industry is facing a separate investigation by US authorities over alleged antidumping and countervailing (AD/CVD) activities. This enquiry is due to conclude in early 2026.

22 October 2026
India Expo Mart, Greater Noida
Whether you're looking for new technologies, trusted partners, or fresh business opportunities, you'll find them at the 19th Renewable Energy India Expo 2026. Join 55,000+ industry professionals and 1,000+ exhibiting brands across 14 halls featuring solar, bioenergy, battery storage, and the Germany Pavilion. It's where the clean energy sector comes together to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and drive business forward.

Read Next

August 27, 2026
US- and Canada-based PV module producer Heliene is among the companies trialling a new American-made solar glass currently being tested for sale in the US market.
Premium
August 27, 2026
Domestically produced solar glass is a key gap in the US PV manufacturing ecosystem. Tom Kenning reports on efforts to kick-start local production of this vital material
August 26, 2026
JinkoSolar shipped 15.9GW of modules in the second quarter of this year, which represents a 34.4% year-on-year decline.
August 26, 2026
India’s renewable capacity reached 288GW by June 30, 2026, accounting for 54% of total installed capacity, JMK reported.
August 25, 2026
The NLR has certified that the third generation of TOPCon modules produced by Runergy has a conversion efficiency of 25.9%.
August 25, 2026
Chinese solar PV installations have reached 14.08GW in July 2026, according to the latest data from China’s National Energy Administration (NEA).

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
October 13, 2026
San Francisco Bay Area, USA
Solar Media Events
November 3, 2026
Málaga, Spain
Solar Media Events
November 24, 2026
Warsaw, Poland
Solar Media Events
February 2, 2027
London, UK