US unveils 15% tariff on polysilicon products
The move follows a year-long commerce department probe into imports of the material, which is vital for solar panels and semiconductors.
The US government has announced a new 15% tariff on polysilicon products, effective from December 4. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick explained that this move aims to stimulate domestic polysilicon production and lessen reliance on Chinese imports. The tariffs will apply to products utilizing polysilicon, including wafers and solar cells.
The White House stated that the objective is to "create a level playing field for American producers of these strategic goods" and to "encourage onshoring of these industries." Polysilicon, a crucial component in the semiconductor industry with defense-related applications, is highlighted as an essential element. This decision follows a year-long investigation by the Commerce Department into polysilicon imports, conducted under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, the same authority previously utilized by President Trump for imposing tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos, and other products.
The US's share of global polysilicon production capacity has significantly decreased from 50% in 2005 to less than 2% in 2024.
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