France Solar Panel Import Guide 2026

Complete guide to importing solar panels from China to France: duty rates, VAT, required certifications, main ports, top brands, and Q1 2026 landed-cost benchmarks.

Import Duty
0%
VAT / Sales Tax
20% standard
CBAM
Applies
Main Port
Le Havre
πŸ’° Q1 2026 Landed Cost Benchmark

Landed CIF Le Havre TOPCon 580W: ~€0.09-0.10/W. Carbon footprint scoring impacts tender eligibility.

β†’ Estimate your landed cost with our calculator

1. France Tariffs & Taxes on Solar Panels

MFN Duty0% (EU MFN)
Anti-Dumping / CVDNone
VAT / Sales Tax20% standard; 10% reduced on solar installations
CBAMβœ… Applies β€” carbon footprint reporting required

2. Required Certifications for France

IEC 61215IEC 61730CENF Certified Solar (optional but preferred)

Always request corresponding certification documents from suppliers. Modules without proper certifications may face customs clearance issues or grid connection rejection.

3. Shipping & Ports

Main Ports
  • πŸ“ Le Havre
  • πŸ“ Marseille
  • πŸ“ Fos-sur-Mer
Typical Lead Time
30-35 days sea freight from Shanghai
Preferred Incoterms
CIF Le HavreCIF MarseilleDDP Paris

4. Popular Module Brands in France

JinkoSolarLONGiTrina SolarVoltec (local)Systovi (local)

Popular wattage: 430-500W mono (residential), 580-620W (agri-PV & utility)

5. Regulatory Notes

France uses carbon footprint scoring (empreinte carbone) for public tenders β€” low-carbon modules (fluorinated glass, EU cells) get preference. Agri-PV law unlocks rural deployment. CBAM applies.

🚒

JUST SOLAR β€” Your France Delivery Partner

JUST SOLAR provides modules with verified low-carbon footprint certification β€” eligible for French public tenders.

France Solar Directory

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to import solar panels from China to France?

30-35 days sea freight from Shanghai.

Are there anti-dumping duties on Chinese solar panels in France?

None

What's the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for France?

Most manufacturers require full-container-load (40HQ = ~612-720 panels depending on wattage). LCL (less-than-container) shipments with lower MOQ (from 100 panels) available via trading partners like JUST SOLAR.

What payment terms are standard?

Mainstream: 30% TT deposit + 70% within 7 days against BL copy (for established EU/US buyers). Emerging markets / new buyers: 50% deposit + 50% before shipment. LC (letter of credit) negotiable for large orders.

Import Guides for Other Countries