WTO panel to review India's solar and IT goods policies amid reform talks

WTO scrutinizes India's solar and tech trade measures

A World Trade Organization panel will examine India's policies on solar panels and IT goods, following concerns raised by trading partners. The review comes as WTO members discuss broader reforms to global trade rules.

India's domestic content requirements for solar energy projects have drawn particular attention. The rules mandate use of locally-made components in government-backed solar installations. Several countries argue these measures distort international competition.

Members split on reform approach

During recent talks, WTO members shared conflicting views on how to modernize trade rules. Some called for stricter enforcement of existing agreements, while others pushed for new frameworks to address green technology transfers.

The discussions touched on:

• India's production-linked incentives for IT hardware
• Tariff structures for renewable energy components
• Balancing domestic industry growth with trade commitments

No immediate resolutions emerged from the preliminary talks. The review panel's findings are expected within six months.