China’s polysilicon imports drop to 2011 levels

The import of polysilicon into China has seen a significant decline, reaching its lowest levels since 2011, according to Bernreuter Research. This drop, from 88,093 metric tons in 2022 to 62,965 metric tons in 2023, is attributed to a shift in supply chains to Vietnam by non-Chinese manufacturers like Wacker and Hemlock, where Chinese solar panel producers are establishing their factories. This move comes in response to stringent U.S. regulations, such as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act and anti-dumping duties, prompting Chinese companies to seek alternatives to Xinjiang-sourced materials. Despite claims of separate supply chains, a surge in polysilicon exports from China to Vietnam raises doubts, with JA Solar, JinkoSolar expanding, and Hemlock, Wacker increasing exports.