China has proposed export controls on 12 technologies used to make solar equipment, a move that could affect companies building solar manufacturing capacity outside the country.
The proposed rules cover several advanced technologies used to make solar cells, wafers and polysilicon.
China’s Ministry of Commerce said the controls are needed because some solar technologies are now used in sensitive areas, including aerospace and national defence.
The ministry said the measures aim to prevent technologies from being transferred or used improperly while allowing normal international technology cooperation.
What technologies are affected?
The proposed controls cover technologies used to make some thin silicon wafers, perovskite solar cells and tandem solar cells.
Perovskite is an emerging solar technology that could help increase the amount of sunlight a cell converts into electricity.
Tandem cells combine perovskite and silicon layers. This allows them to capture more of the sunlight spectrum.
China also plans to control technology used for large-scale fluidized-bed production of polysilicon.
Polysilicon is a key material used to make solar panels. Fluidized-bed production can cost less and use less energy than the widely used Siemens process.
The proposal would also restrict, rather than completely ban, exports of advanced solar cell technologies such as TOPCon, HJT and XBC.
Why overseas solar manufacturers are watching?
The proposed rules come as countries try to build more solar manufacturing capacity at home.
India, for example, is trying to reduce its reliance on Chinese solar technology and equipment. China has already introduced controls affecting some solar manufacturing technology exports to India, according to Reuters.
US companies could also face changes to their plans. Reuters previously reported that Chinese officials had held initial talks with manufacturers about possible controls on advanced solar panel manufacturing technology.
The proposed rules could therefore add another layer of regulation for companies that depend on Chinese technology to build solar production facilities overseas.
Exporters will have to register certain overseas technology transfers while the proposal is being considered.
The public consultation will remain open until November 15.
For the global solar industry, the issue is not only about panels and equipment. Access to the technology used to manufacture them is also becoming an important part of the supply chain.
AI & Technology Economic & Regulation Import and Export Manufacturing
Last modified: October 19, 2026
