ISMA Seeks Zero-Duty Trade For Solar Cells In India-US Agreement

(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Mar 25 (KNN) The India Solar Manufacturing Association (ISMA) has urged the government to include solar cells and modules in the proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between India and the United States.

This move aims to eliminate duties on these products, fostering a more competitive and robust solar manufacturing ecosystem in India.

In its recommendations to the government regarding ongoing trade negotiations, ISMA addressed the New and Renewable Energy Ministry through a letter, advocating for a zero-duty trade policy between the two nations for solar cells and modules.

Additionally, the association requested duty-free imports of polysilicon, ingots, and wafers, essential components in solar panel production. This, ISMA argues, will bolster India's entry into upstream manufacturing segments, strengthening its position in the global solar market.

The industry body also emphasised the need for zero-duty imports of capital goods and equipment used in the photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing sector from the US.

Further, it suggested additional incentives to attract American fabricators to establish manufacturing facilities in India, which would enhance domestic production capabilities and create employment opportunities.

"India's solar manufacturing industry stands at the threshold of becoming a global leader. With the right trade architecture in place, supported by disciplined policy continuity and robust safeguards, the proposed bilateral trade agreement with the United States could mark a defining moment in India's industrial and clean energy journey," ISMA stated in its letter.

As India aims to expand its renewable energy sector, facilitating cost-effective manufacturing through strategic trade agreements could accelerate its goal of achieving self-reliance and global competitiveness in solar technology.

(KNN Bureau)

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