The US International Trade Commission has voted to advance an investigation into solar panel imports from India, Laos, and Indonesia. The inquiry was initiated in July by the Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade, which includes First Solar and Qcells. The coalition said Chinese-owned and other firms in these countries used subsidies and sold panels cheaply, hurting US manufacturers. Imports haverose to $1.6 billion in 2023 from $289 million in 2022. The three-member ITC panel backed the investigation, taking an initial step forward. The US Department of Commerce is conducting parallel probes. Preliminary findings on countervailing duties are expected by October 10, with antidumping duty determinations scheduled for December 24.