Mexico vs Philippines: Solar Import Comparison 2026
Compare every aspect of importing solar panels to Mexico and Philippines β tariffs, certifications, logistics, and market dynamics side by side.
Both Mexico and Philippines offer distinct import dynamics. Review the metrics below to pick the right sourcing strategy for your project.
| Metric | π Mexico North America | π Philippines Asia |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | 0% (duty-free for solar modules under PROSEC) | 0% (solar panels exempt under RA 9513 Renewable Energy Act) |
| Anti-Dumping | None | None |
| VAT / Sales Tax | 16% IVA | 0% for RE equipment under RA 9513 |
| CBAM Applicable | β No | β No |
| Main Ports | Manzanillo (Pacific), LΓ‘zaro CΓ‘rdenas, Veracruz (Atlantic), Altamira | Manila, Batangas, Cebu |
| Typical Lead Time | 22-28 days sea freight Pacific route from Shanghai | 10-15 days sea freight from Shanghai |
| Preferred Incoterms | CIF Manzanillo, DDP Monterrey (for nearshoring projects) | CIF Manila, DDP |
| Top Brands | JinkoSolar, LONGi, Canadian Solar, Trina Solar, JA Solar | JinkoSolar, Canadian Solar, LONGi, Trina Solar, JA Solar |
| Popular Wattage | 540-580W bifacial (C&I dominant), 450-550W (distributed generation) | 540-580W bifacial (C&I + utility), 430-500W (residential) |
| Q1 2026 Landed Price | Landed CIF Manzanillo TOPCon 560W: ~$0.10-0.11/W. Nearshoring boosts industrial rooftop demand. | Landed CIF Manila TOPCon 560W: ~$0.10/W. Net metering + GEOP (Green Energy Option) drive residential & C&I. |
Regulatory Notes
π Mexico
Nearshoring boom: US companies relocating manufacturing β huge industrial rooftop solar demand. CFE grid capacity auctions resumed. UL certification preferred (easier for cross-border projects).
π Philippines
RA 9513 Renewable Energy Act: 0% VAT + 7-year income tax holiday + duty-free imports for RE projects. Net metering up to 100kW. 35% renewables target by 2030.
JUST SOLAR β Mexico Delivery
JUST SOLAR ships via Manzanillo with UL-certified modules β ideal for US-Mexico border industrial projects.
JUST SOLAR β Philippines Delivery
JUST SOLAR ships CIF Manila weekly with RE Act documentation for duty-free clearance.
π Sourcing to both markets?
JUST SOLAR GROUP delivers to 40+ countries worldwide with localized compliance documentation and flexible payment terms.