China files WTO solar subsidy complaint against India

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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.

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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.

13 October 2026
San Francisco Bay Area, USA
PV Tech has been running an annual PV CellTech Conference since 2016. PV CellTech USA, on 13-14 October 2026 is our fourth PV CellTech conference dedicated to solar manufacturing in the USA. From polysilicon, wafers, ingots, cells and modules, to critical component suppliers including glass and frames, the event connects every stage of the value chain under one roof. PV CellTech USA also brings together investors, innovators, manufacturers and industry stakeholders to collaborate and strengthen domestic solar manufacturing across the United States.

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