The US Commerce Department has launched anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigations into solar cell imports from Southeast Asia, targeting countries including Thailand.

Initiated in response to petitions by US producers in April 2024, the probes scrutinize the alleged unfair trade practices of Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

These practices reportedly undermine US solar manufacturing by selling crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells at below-market prices.

The Thai government is also accused of subsidizing exports to the US.

On October 1, the US preliminarily determined that these imports were sold below fair value, resulting in subsidy rates between 0.14-34.5% for Thailand, which were judged to be insignificant.

By contrast, other nations face potential retroactive duties with higher subsidy rates: Cambodia (8.25-68.5%), Malaysia (3.47-124%), and Vietnam (0.81-293%).

The US is Thailand's primary export market for solar cells, contributing to 75.3% of its shipments.

The final decision is expected in early 2025.

Thai authorities plan to collaborate with governmental bodies to support their exporters.