Thailand’s solar panel imports have seen a dramatic increase, surging by 88.7% year-over-year to reach $426.7 million in the first seven months of 2026, according to data from the Ministry of Commerce and Customs Department. The vast majority of these imports, approximately 99.3%, originated from China, with the total value amounting to $423.9 million, marking a 107.1% rise compared to the same period the previous year.
This spike in imports aligns with Thailand’s ambitious plans to launch a household solar installation program. The initiative aims to subsidize solar panel installations with about THB50,000 per household. Initially targeting one million homes, the program has the potential to expand to 1.5 million households, significantly boosting the country’s solar energy capacity.
While China dominates the supply chain, Singapore and Hong Kong contribute marginally, each accounting for around 0.3% of Thailand’s solar panel import value. This highlights the strategic preference and dependence on Chinese-manufactured panels for Thailand’s burgeoning solar market.
To support the domestic solar industry, the Thai government is considering various measures, including enhancing local manufacturing capabilities. Collaborations with the Ministry of Labour focus on training workers in solar panel assembly, installation, and maintenance. Additionally, discussions with the Board of Investment are underway to potentially lower duties on production inputs not available locally.
Through these efforts, Thailand aims to foster a robust clean-energy supply chain, encouraging both rooftop and ground-mounted solar installations. This strategy not only seeks to decrease household electricity expenses but also to advance the country’s overall renewable energy goals, positioning Thailand as a leader in Southeast Asia’s solar market.