As Thailand intensifies its efforts to bolster renewable energy adoption, the country has witnessed a significant surge in solar panel imports. Between January and July 2026, Thailand imported solar panels worth $426.7 million, marking an 88.7% increase compared to the same period last year. This surge is largely driven by imports from China, which accounted for 99.3% of the total, according to Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce and Customs Department.
Chinese solar panels alone contributed $423.9 million to the overall import value, reflecting a 107.1% rise year-on-year. While China dominates the supply, Singapore and Hong Kong trail significantly, each comprising only about 0.3% of Thailand’s solar panel imports.
The sharp increase in imports aligns with Thailand’s plans to launch a household solar installation program. This initiative aims to equip one million homes with solar systems, potentially extending to 1.5 million households. Each household could receive a subsidy of approximately THB50,000 to facilitate the installation.
In parallel with increasing imports, the Thai government is exploring strategies to enhance domestic solar panel manufacturing capabilities. Efforts include collaborating with the Ministry of Labour to provide training in solar panel assembly, installation, and maintenance. Additionally, discussions with the Board of Investment are underway to consider reducing duties on production inputs not available domestically.
Through these measures, Thailand seeks to promote both rooftop and ground-mounted solar installations. By doing so, the country aims to decrease household electricity costs and establish a sustainable clean-energy supply chain within the nation.