Trump likely to reject US industry requests for quicker polysilicon tariff, source says

• A 15% tariff and price floor on polysilicon derivatives could be announced as soon as Thursday with a 120-day implementation period
• Some U.S. manufacturers lobbied for a shortened 90-day timeline, arguing the extra month would allow a top foreign producer to flood the U.S. market and harm domestic rivals
• The administration is expected to maintain the longer 120-day implementation period, rejecting the industry's request for acceleration

Summary

The Trump administration is expected to reject requests from U.S. manufacturers to accelerate the implementation timeline for new polysilicon tariffs and price floors. The measure, which could be announced as soon as Thursday, August 6, will impose a 15% tariff on polysilicon derivatives along with a minimum price floor.

Key Details:

• The administration plans to maintain a 120-day implementation period following the announcement
• Some domestic manufacturers lobbied for a shortened 90-day timeline but appear unlikely to succeed
• Industry advocates argued the extra month would allow China, a leading polysilicon producer, additional time to flood the U.S. market before tariffs take effect, disadvantaging American competitors

Market Implications:

The decision affects the solar energy supply chain, as polysilicon is a critical component in solar panel manufacturing. The 120-day delay before tariff implementation gives foreign producers, particularly Chinese manufacturers, a four-month window to export products to the U.S. at current prices. This could temporarily depress domestic polysilicon prices and create inventory buildup before the tariffs activate.

The policy reflects ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China in the renewable energy sector, where American manufacturers have sought protection from lower-priced imports. The tariff structure aims to establish both a percentage-based duty and a minimum price threshold to protect domestic producers.

Timing: Official announcement expected Thursday, with the 15% tariff and price floor becoming effective approximately 120 days thereafter.