Press Release
Bangkok, Thailand – Job Losses Mount as U.S. Tariffs Hit Solar Industry
Chonlada Siangkong, a 33-year-old mother, recently received a devastating text message: she had lost her job at a solar cell factory in Rayong, Thailand, following its abrupt closure amid impending U.S. tariffs on solar panel imports. Standard Energy Co., a subsidiary of Singapore’s GSTAR, halted operations last month, anticipating tariffs as high as 3,500% on exports from Thailand and other Southeast Asian nations.
Beginning this week, U.S. Customs and Border Protection will enforce these tariffs, citing unfair trade practices by Chinese manufacturers utilizing Southeast Asian countries to evade previous duties. This situation raises concerns about the viability of Southeast Asia as a solar export hub, currently supplying around 80% of solar products to the U.S., valued at over $3.7 billion in 2023.
Chonlada and others are facing uncertain futures, with many workers receiving no compensation. Industry experts warn that Southeast Asian manufacturers may reconsider their operations in light of such protectionist measures.
Companies like Jinko Solar and Trina Solar, facing scrutiny from U.S. trade authorities, may exacerbate the situation as they withdraw from the region. Moreover, environmental advocates express concern over the loss of not just low-skilled jobs but also skilled labor vital for solar production.
While there’s skepticism about the sector’s recovery, some analysts suggest that domestic markets in these countries could absorb surplus solar products, potentially speeding up renewable energy initiatives. However, U.S. tariffs may ultimately hinder progress on green energy transitions in both Southeast Asia and the U.S., as rising prices loom over American consumers.
As the region grapples with this industry shake-up, experts urge Southeast Asian governments to foster a more supportive regulatory environment to ensure the survival of local solar enterprises while circumventing the negative implications of U.S. trade policies.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
