China vs Japan: Solar Import Comparison 2026
Compare every aspect of importing solar panels to China and Japan β tariffs, certifications, logistics, and market dynamics side by side.
Both China and Japan offer distinct import dynamics. Review the metrics below to pick the right sourcing strategy for your project.
| Metric | π China Asia | π Japan Asia |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | N/A (world's largest solar manufacturing base) | 0% (GSP / MFN for Chinese modules) |
| Anti-Dumping | N/A | None |
| VAT / Sales Tax | 13% VAT (rebate on export: 13% for most solar products) | 10% consumption tax |
| CBAM Applicable | β No | β No |
| Main Ports | Shanghai, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Qingdao | Yokohama, Osaka, Nagoya, Kobe |
| Typical Lead Time | Domestic: 5-10 days; Export: 2-7 days to port | 12-18 days sea freight from Shanghai |
| Preferred Incoterms | FOB Shanghai/Ningbo, EXW factory, CIF anywhere | CIF Yokohama/Osaka, DDP |
| Top Brands | JinkoSolar, LONGi, Trina Solar, JA Solar, Canadian Solar | Sharp (local), Panasonic (local), Kyocera (local), JinkoSolar, Q CELLS |
| Popular Wattage | 580-640W bifacial TOPCon (2026 standard), 700-730W (high-power utility) | 400-470W mono (residential + small C&I), tight roof fit important |
| Q1 2026 Landed Price | FOB Shanghai TOPCon 580W: ~$0.082-0.092/W (Q1 2026). Spot market volatility high β lock with TT 30% deposit. | Landed CIF Yokohama TOPCon 430W: ~$0.12-0.14/W (Q1 2026). Premium market, quality-first over price. |
Regulatory Notes
π China
Home to 80%+ of global module supply. Export VAT rebate of 13% factored into FOB. Shanghai/Ningbo are biggest ports. Customs clearance varies by province. New "dual-side tape" packaging standard reduces shipping damage.
π Japan
Japan transitioning FITβFIP (feed-in premium) reshaping project economics. JET certification mandatory and slow (3-6 months for new models). Typhoon/snow-rated mounting required. Premium over mainstream markets.
JUST SOLAR β China Delivery
JUST SOLAR is based in Shanghai β visit our factories, audit samples, or consolidate LCL shipments to any port.
JUST SOLAR β Japan Delivery
JUST SOLAR provides JET-certified modules for Japanese market β tight residential-size modules available.
π Sourcing to both markets?
JUST SOLAR GROUP delivers to 40+ countries worldwide with localized compliance documentation and flexible payment terms.