Tungsten and Solar Industry Precursor Products Affected
At the beginning of 2025, the United States will impose new tariffs on a range of Chinese materials and raw goods. Tariffs on solar wafers and polysilicon—key precursors for the production of solar cells—will be raised to 50 percent, according to a statement from U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. Additionally, a 25 percent tariff will apply to various tungsten products starting January 1.
The justification for these measures cites the heavy reliance on tungsten imports from China, which not only jeopardizes national security but also undermines efforts to establish domestic production capacity. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there has been no tungsten mining in the United States since 2015. The new tariffs are expected to create incentives for developing domestic production capabilities, the statement further elaborates.
Tungsten is used in tool manufacturing and also holds significant importance for the defense industry.
The decision followed a public consultation process.
Read more: In early December, China imposed export restrictions on various critical raw materials to the United States, the latest chapter in the long-running conflict between the two countries.
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