China proposed prohibitions and licensing requirements for selected solar manufacturing technologies, including advanced cell and wafer production methods. Consultation on the changes runs until November 15. A separate temporary registration requirement has already begun for planned technology transfers. The distinction matters for manufacturers: the proposed export bans remain under consultation, while specified transfers already require advance registration.
China’s commerce and science ministries proposed export controls on 12 solar manufacturing technologies on October 16. The draft covers selected polysilicon, silicon wafer and solar cell production methods. Consultation runs until November 15. Some technologies are proposed for prohibition; others would enter a restricted category requiring government approval and licences for overseas transfer.[1], [2]
Proposed bans include manufacturing processes for perovskite-silicon tandem cells, which combine layers of the two materials, using wafers of at least 182 millimetres and reaching conversion efficiencies of 30 per cent or more. Selected perovskite coating processes at widths of at least 1.1 metres are also covered. The draft includes methods for producing silicon wafers no thicker than 70 micrometres and specified surface treatments for thin cells.[1]
The proposed controls apply to manufacturing technology meeting the technical criteria, rather than directly restricting exports of finished solar cells and modules. The bans and licensing requirements remain proposals and have not taken effect.[1]
A separate temporary registration obligation began on October 16. Before transferring specified technologies, companies must register planned exports through the commerce ministry’s online system. Intellectual property transfers and overseas technology licensing are included, alongside qualifying key equipment. The requirement also applies to transactions already under way but not completed, while consultation on the proposed catalogue changes continues.[1], [2]
