Solar Panels Now More Expensive in Pakistan After Latest FBR Decision

The Directorate General of Customs Valuation Karachi has increased customs values on the import of solar panels from all origins ahead of the federal budget for fiscal year 2026-27.

According to Valuation Ruling 2077 of 2026 issued on Tuesday, the customs department revised the values after noting an increase in international market prices of solar panels since the last valuation ruling issued in 2025.

Customs authorities said they conducted a preliminary analysis of import data, including declared values, assessed values, and prevailing international market prices, before re-determining the customs values under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969.

The directorate held meetings with stakeholders during the valuation process and reviewed documentary evidence submitted by importers regarding pricing and market trends.

The ruling stated that customs authorities examined different valuation methods under Section 25 of the Customs Act before finalizing the new values.

Officials eventually relied on the similar goods value method after finding limitations in transaction value and identical goods valuation methods.

The revised values apply to Tier I solar panel manufacturers listed in Bloomberg NEF’s Global PV Market Outlook for the last two quarters, including major global brands such as Jinko Solar, LONGI, Trina, JA Solar, Canadian Solar, First Solar, BYD, and others.

According to the ruling, importers can still qualify under the Tier I category if they provide sufficient documentary evidence proving that the imported solar panels belong to a recognized Tier I manufacturer not specifically listed in the valuation ruling.

The customs department also stated that solar panels imported in semi-knocked-down condition will be assessed at values 12.5 percent lower than the specified customs values under the new framework.