China’s exports of solar cells and panels to Africa surged sharply in April 2026, rising 83% year-on-year, as global demand for renewable energy continued to accelerate.
According to China customs data reported by Reuters, shipments to African countries reached 123,787 metric tons in April 2026, up from 67,552 tons in April 2025, underscoring the continent’s growing role in global clean energy demand.
However, exports declined from March’s peak of 209,474 tons, reflecting a slowdown after a surge in pre-policy buying ahead of China’s decision to end its solar export tax refund policy from April 1, a move that had temporarily boosted global orders.
What the data is saying
Export patterns showed strong annual growth across regions, even as monthly volumes corrected after March’s unusually high figures.
▪ Shipments to Africa fell from 209,474 tons in March 2026 as markets adjusted to post-policy conditions.
▪ In April 2025, Africa imported 67,552 tons of solar panels and cells.
▪ Global solar exports rose 60% year-on-year, despite mixed regional trends.
Other regions also recorded strong activity:
▪ Southeast Asia imports rose 75% year-on-year to 170,733 tons in April, though down from March’s spike.
More insights
Trade flows indicate shifting global demand, with Europe and Asia still dominating volumes, while African demand continues to accelerate alongside electrification efforts and renewable energy expansion.
The Netherlands remained the largest importer at 177,391 tons, down slightly year-on-year, continuing its role as a key European transshipment hub. The Philippines also saw a post-surge correction after March’s buying spike.
Across Africa:
▪ The Democratic Republic of the Congo recorded a 482% year-on-year increase to 17,953 tons.
▪ South Africa’s imports rose 81.4% year-on-year, reinforcing its position as one of the continent’s largest solar markets.
The trend highlights Africa’s increasing adoption of solar power, driven by off-grid electrification, utility-scale renewable projects, and rising energy access needs.
What you should know
Nigeria has emerged as a major driver of Africa’s solar demand. Earlier data from energy think tank Ember showed that Nigeria became Africa’s second-largest solar importer in 2025, as total African imports surged 60% year-on-year to 15,032 MW.
In response to this rapid growth, the Federal Government had previously announced plans to restrict solar panel imports in order to encourage local manufacturing and strengthen domestic clean energy production capacity.
The latest surge in Chinese exports underscores the tension between rising demand for renewable energy solutions in Africa and policy efforts to localise solar manufacturing across key markets.
