China proposes export curbs on 12 key solar manufacturing technologies

China has proposed export restrictions on 12 solar manufacturing technologies, claiming national security worries as the reason. This action might impact overseas production schemes and strengthen China's grip on the worldwide photovoltaic sector. The Ministry of Commerce introduced the proposal on Friday as part of a wider revision of its technology export-control list, which covers artificial intelligence and biotechnology too.

The ministry explained that stricter control was essential because photovoltaic technologies are now used in sensitive fields such as aerospace and national defense.

Under the proposed rules, China would ban exports of certain technologies utilized in making thin silicon wafers, perovskite and tandem solar cells, as well as large-scale fluidized-bed polysilicon production systems. Perovskite technology has the potential to deliver higher solar conversion efficiency, while tandem cells combine materials to capture a broader range of sunlight.

Fluidized-bed polysilicon production is also more energy-efficient and less costly than the traditional Siemens process. Beijing would independently limit, not prohibit, exports of advanced solar cell manufacturing technologies, such as TOPCon, heterojunction technology (HJT) and XBC. The proposed controls could make it harder for overseas firms to broaden their presence in domestic solar production.

Chinese officials have already talked about possible restrictions with producers, causing concerns about expansion plans by U.S. companies, including Tesla (NASDAQ). China has also made access to solar manufacturing technology more restricted for India, which is striving to develop domestic production and lessen its dependence on Chinese suppliers.

The proposal shows Beijing's efforts to keep control over strategically significant technologies while safeguarding its role in the global solar supply chain. The commerce ministry said the measures were meant to avoid the uncontrolled spread or misuse of sensitive technologies while preserving legitimate international collaboration.

Exporters need to register specific overseas tech transfers before the formal revision of the export-control list. Public feedback on the proposal will close on November 15. If carried out, the restrictions could create more uncertainty for global solar manufacturers seeking access to Chinese production know-how.