每经热评｜取消光伏和电池出口退税 有利产业进化和财政资源优化

Core Viewpoint - The Ministry of Finance and the State Taxation Administration announced adjustments to the export tax rebate policy for photovoltaic and battery products, effective from April 1, 2026, which includes the cancellation of VAT export rebates for these products, indicating a shift towards a mature industry that no longer requires policy support [1][2]. Group 1: Policy Changes - From April 1, 2026, the VAT export rebate for photovoltaic products will be eliminated, and the rebate rate for battery products will be reduced from 9% to 6% until December 31, 2026, after which it will also be canceled [1]. - The previous adjustments included a reduction of the export rebate rate for certain products from 13% to 9% starting December 1, 2024, which included solar cells [1][4]. Group 2: Industry Competitiveness - The reduction and eventual elimination of export tax rebates reflect the enhanced global competitiveness of China's photovoltaic and battery products, which account for approximately 80% of global solar cell production and 70% of lithium battery production [1][2]. - The export tax rebate has historically helped reduce export costs and enhance international competitiveness, but the industry has reached a stage where such support is no longer necessary [2]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The cancellation of export tax rebates is expected to accelerate market clearing, leading to the elimination of companies that rely heavily on these rebates for profitability, while stronger companies with technological advantages will consolidate market share [3]. - The photovoltaic industry has faced issues of disorderly competition and price declines, with solar module prices dropping over 60% from $0.24 per watt at the beginning of 2023 to $0.09 per watt, resulting in a 33% year-on-year decline in export value for 2024 [2][3]. Group 4: Fiscal Resource Allocation - The policy adjustment aims to redirect fiscal resources towards domestic demand and social welfare, addressing challenges such as insufficient effective demand and overcapacity in certain industries [3][4]. - The cancellation of export rebates for strong industries allows for better allocation of fiscal resources, which can be directed towards consumer subsidies, employment support, and healthcare, thereby enhancing domestic consumption and stabilizing economic expectations [3].