China’s photovoltaic (PV) module exports remained largely stable in August 2026, reaching approximately 15.26 gigawatts (GW), a marginal increase of 0.2% compared with July. However, exports declined 50% year-on-year (YoY) from 30.82 GW in August 2025, reflecting a high comparison base and changing demand patterns across major international markets.
India’s reduced imports contributed significantly to the annual decline. Chinese module shipments to India fell sharply from 2.68 GW in August 2025 to just 0.07 GW in August 2026, following the introduction of domestic manufacturing requirements under the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) List-II.
During January–August 2026, China exported a cumulative 158.71 GW of PV modules, representing a 12% decline compared with the corresponding period in 2025. Despite the reduction in module shipments, exports of solar cells recorded strong monthly growth, indicating changes in international manufacturing and supply-chain strategies.
Chinese solar cell exports reached 7.84 GW in August, increasing 54% from July. The cumulative volume for the first eight months of 2026 stood at 72.69 GW, up 9% YoY.
Europe Remains the Largest Market for Chinese Solar Modules
Europe continued to be the largest destination for Chinese PV modules in August, accounting for 6.51 GW, or approximately 43% of total exports. However, shipments to the region declined 5% month-on-month (MoM) and 48% YoY.
The Netherlands remained the leading European destination, importing 2.61 GW of Chinese solar modules during the month. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom recorded a 60% monthly increase in imports, reaching 0.43 GW.
The increase in UK shipments was attributed to distributors building inventory ahead of regulatory changes allowing self-installed balcony solar systems. The development is expected to create additional opportunities for small-scale solar deployment and related equipment suppliers.
Despite the increase in some individual markets, the overall European market continued to experience lower import volumes compared with the previous year.
Asia-Pacific Imports Increase Amid Policy Changes
The Asia-Pacific region recorded a 10% MoM increase in Chinese solar module imports, reaching 4.02 GW in August.
Pakistan returned as the region’s largest buyer, importing 0.93 GW of modules. Changes in the country’s energy policies, particularly those supporting self-consumption and energy storage, contributed to the renewed demand.
Indonesia also recorded stronger activity following official plans to deploy 30 GW of solar power capacity in 2026. The country’s growing solar ambitions are supporting demand for imported equipment and influencing regional supply chains.
The increase in Asia-Pacific imports helped offset declines in other markets, although the region’s overall performance continued to reflect differences in national policies, installation targets and procurement schedules.
Americas Record the Fastest Monthly Growth
The Americas registered the fastest monthly growth among the major regions, with Chinese PV module exports increasing 30% MoM to 2.19 GW in August.
Brazil led imports in the region, accounting for 0.92 GW. The increase was linked to developers accelerating shipments amid temporary reductions in tariff quotas.
Such procurement activity can influence monthly export figures as developers and importers adjust shipment schedules to take advantage of favourable trade conditions. However, the sustainability of this growth will depend on future policy developments and project demand.
Middle East and Africa Face Shipping and Logistics Challenges
Chinese solar module exports to the Middle East reached 1.63 GW in August. Shipments to the region were affected by higher war-risk shipping premiums around the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, increasing transportation costs and complicating logistics.
Africa imported 0.91 GW of Chinese modules during the month, representing a 38% MoM decline. Port congestion in Durban and Lagos contributed to the reduction in shipments.
Despite the monthly fall, Africa remained the only region to record cumulative year-on-year growth in Chinese module imports, with volumes increasing 41%. This trend indicates continued demand for solar equipment across African markets, even as logistics constraints affect the timing of deliveries.
Solar Cell Exports Rise Ahead of US Trade Measures
The sharp increase in Chinese solar cell exports during August was largely driven by manufacturers advancing shipments ahead of anticipated US trade policy changes.
Indonesia was the largest destination for Chinese solar cells, importing 2.01 GW in August. The Philippines followed with 1.08 GW, while Nigeria imported 0.75 GW and Kenya received 0.72 GW. Türkiye accounted for another 0.59 GW, reflecting its growing role as a regional assembly hub.
Indonesia, Laos and the Philippines together accounted for approximately 80% of the monthly increase in Chinese solar cell exports. Manufacturers reportedly accelerated deliveries ahead of the expected implementation of US Section 232 Minimum Import Price (MIP) rules, which include a proposed price threshold of $0.22 per watt and were scheduled to take effect on December 4.
However, the export window could narrow sooner than anticipated. Anti-circumvention measures issued by the US Department of Commerce in late September are expected to affect shipment strategies, potentially slowing exports through October and November.
Meanwhile, routes through India and Ethiopia have effectively closed because of domestic policy barriers and trade inquiries, prompting manufacturers to reconsider their supply-chain arrangements.
Outlook for Global Solar Trade
China’s August export figures highlight a changing global solar trade environment. While module shipments remained stable compared with July, the significant annual decline reflects a combination of high base effects, domestic manufacturing policies and shifting regional demand.
The growth in solar cell exports demonstrates how manufacturers are adjusting shipment schedules ahead of trade restrictions and exploring alternative destinations. However, front-loading may create temporary increases in trade volumes rather than sustained demand.
Going forward, changes in US trade policy, domestic manufacturing requirements, shipping costs and regional installation targets are likely to influence Chinese solar exports. The performance of individual markets will depend increasingly on regulatory conditions, supply-chain flexibility and the pace of renewable energy deployment.
