Most of China-based polysilicon makers are disappointed with the punitive tariff rates their government is going to impose on polysilicon imports from the US, South Korea and Europe, because they think that such tariffs are insufficient to deter dumping, according to China-based media reports.

US- and South Korea-based polysilicon makers are subject to anti-dumping tariff rates of 2.4-57% and anti-subsidization tariff rates of 0-2.1%, while Germany-based Wacker has been given an anti-dumping tariff rate of 14.3% and other Europe-based makers 42%. In addition, all of Europe-based makers are subject to an anti-subsidization tariff rate of 1.2%.

Some China-based solar wafer and cell makers think that such tariff rates are acceptable and they would prefer imported polysilicon if prices are approximately the same as those for locally produced product.

The demand for polysilicon in China in 2014 is estimated at 140,000-170,000 tons and about 100,000 tons of them will be supplied by China-based makers and 40,000-70,000 tons imported.