China’s exports of solar cells and panels to Africa recorded a sharp increase in April, rising 83% year-on-year as global demand for renewable energy continued to strengthen.
This is according to China customs data released on Wednesday and reported by Reuters.
The data showed that exports to African countries reached 123,787 metric tons in April 2026, up from 67,552 tons in April 2025.
However, shipments declined compared to March’s peak of 209,474 tons, reflecting a slowdown after a surge in pre-policy buying.
The March spike was driven by global buyers rushing to secure shipments ahead of China’s decision to end its solar export tax refund policy from April 1, a move widely expected to increase export prices.
Export trends showed strong year-on-year growth across multiple regions, although monthly volumes moderated after March’s exceptional peak.
Exports to Southeast Asia also increased significantly, rising 75% year-on-year to 170,733 tons in April, although this was lower than March’s 336,891 tons.
Trade flows indicated shifting demand patterns across global markets, with Europe and Asia continuing to dominate import volumes, while African demand showed accelerating momentum.
The Netherlands remained the largest importer by volume, serving as a key transhipment hub into Europe, with shipments valued at $380.8 million.
The Philippines emerged as another major importer after a strong surge in March, although volumes eased in April following the earlier spike in pre-tariff purchases.
The surge in Chinese solar exports to Africa highlights the continent’s growing role in global renewable energy demand, driven by expanding electrification efforts and increasing investment in off-grid and utility-scale solar projects.
Recent data from energy think tank Ember had previously shown that Nigeria emerged as Africa’s second-largest solar importer in 2025, as total African solar imports rose 60% year-on-year to 15,032 MW.
Earlier, Naijaonpoint reported that Nigeria has emerged as Africa’s second-largest solar importer after a record surge in solar panel shipments across the continent in 2025.
According to new data from energy think tank Ember, solar imports rose 60% year-on-year to reach 15,032 MW, compared to 9,379 MW in the previous 12 months across Africa.
In 2025, FG announced plans to stop the importation of solar panels as part of efforts to boost local production and drive Nigeria’s clean energy transition.
