The Department of Commerce introduced new restrictions on polysilicon imports last week to prevent stockpiling ahead of Section 232 tariffs. The rules serve as a temporary measure until the tariffs and minimum import prices take effect on December 4. Suniva, a U.S. cell manufacturer, said preventing early purchases of overseas material is critical for the policy’s success.
What it means
The Commerce Department’s interim limits are designed to stop domestic manufacturers from buying large quantities of foreign polysilicon before the December 4 deadline. The tariffs and price floors were first announced in August but do not begin until early December. Matt Card, president and COO of Suniva, described the anti-stockpiling measures as a “critical” step to ensuring the Section 232 actions will be effective.
Key facts
- Commerce Department introduced import limits last week
- Limits aim to prevent stockpiling of polysilicon
- Tariffs and minimum import prices take effect December 4
- Section 232 measures first announced in August
- Suniva is a U.S. cell manufacturer
- Matt Card is president and COO of Suniva
Source: PV Tech, reporting Commerce Department action