Thailand has significantly increased its solar panel imports. During the first seven months of 2026, the country purchased solar equipment worth US$426.7 million, which is 88.7 per cent more than during the same period last year. China accounted for 99.3 per cent of total supplies. This was reported by the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), a TV BRICS partner.
The rise in imports comes as the Thailand government prepares a support programme for installing solar energy systems in households.
The state plans to provide around 50,000 baht (approximately US$1,500) to each household for installing rooftop or land-based solar panels. During the first stage, the programme could cover 1 million households, with the number later increasing to 1.5 million.
At the same time, Thailand aims to restore its own solar panel production. The Ministry of Labour plans to train specialists in equipment assembly, installation and maintenance. The government is also considering reducing import duties on components that are not yet manufactured domestically.
Authorities expect the measures to help seven to eight Thai factories resume production, create a local supply chain and new jobs, and improve the competitiveness of domestic manufacturers.