U.S. Commerce Department Probes Ethiopian Solar Imports Over China Duty Evasion

The U.S. Department of Commerce has launched a country-wide investigation into solar cells and modules imported from Ethiopia, amid allegations that the nation is being used as a conduit to circumvent long-standing anti-dumping and countervailing duty orders against Chinese solar products.

The inquiry follows a formal petition filed in May 2026 by an unnamed petitioner, sparking concerns that Ethiopian exports may be rerouted Chinese goods. The investigation will determine whether Ethiopia is evading U.S. trade remedies, which could lead to retroactive duties.

This move could have significant implications for Ethiopia’s growing solar manufacturing sector and its trade relationship with the United States. Ethiopian officials have yet to comment on the probe.

The investigation is part of broader U.S. efforts to crack down on transshipment of Chinese goods through third countries to avoid tariffs.

Article and image source: capitalethiopia.com