New Section 232 Tariffs Target Polysilicon for Solar, Semiconductor Supply Chains
In-house counsel for U.S. solar developers, semiconductor manufacturers, and polysilicon importers must act to mitigate cost increases and supply chain disruptions from new Section 232 tariffs and minimum import prices on polysilicon.
On August 6, 2026, the U.S. government issued a proclamation imposing Section 232 national security tariffs and minimum import prices (MIPs) on imported polysilicon, a core input for solar panels and semiconductor chips. The policy is intended to boost domestic polysilicon production but will raise input costs for downstream buyers that rely on imported supply. Affected in-house counsel should first review existing supply contracts for price adjustment or force majeure clauses, assess eligibility for tariff exclusion requests, and evaluate alternative domestic or third-country polysilicon sourcing options to reduce cost and supply disruption risks.