The Directorate General of Customs Valuation Karachi has increased customs values on the import of solar panels from all countries, a move taken ahead of the federal budget for fiscal year 2026–27.
The revised values were notified through Valuation Ruling 2077 of 2026, issued on Tuesday. Customs officials said the decision followed a rise in international solar panel prices since the last valuation ruling introduced in 2025.
According to the customs department, the revision was based on a preliminary analysis of recent import data. This included a review of declared values, assessed values, and prevailing prices in international markets. The new benchmarks were determined under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969.
Officials said the directorate also engaged with importers during the valuation process. Stakeholder meetings were held and documentary evidence was examined to assess pricing trends and market movements before finalising the updated values.
The ruling noted that multiple valuation methods under Section 25 of the Customs Act were considered. However, customs authorities found limitations in applying transaction value and identical goods valuation methods due to inconsistencies in pricing data. As a result, the similar goods value method was adopted to determine revised customs values.
The updated valuation framework applies to Tier I solar panel manufacturers recognised in the Global PV Market Outlook published by Bloomberg NEF over the last two quarters. These include leading international brands such as Jinko Solar, LONGi, Trina Solar, JA Solar, Canadian Solar, First Solar, and BYD, among others.
Customs authorities clarified that importers are not restricted to the listed brands alone. Importers can still qualify under the Tier I category if they submit sufficient documentary evidence showing that the imported panels belong to a recognised Tier I manufacturer not explicitly named in the ruling.
The valuation ruling also introduced a concession for partially assembled imports. Solar panels imported in semi-knocked-down condition will be assessed at values 12.5 percent lower than the revised customs values specified under the new framework.
Officials said the revised valuation is aimed at aligning customs assessments with current market realities and ensuring uniformity in duty and tax collection at the import stage, particularly as solar imports continue to grow amid rising demand for alternative energy solutions in Pakistan.
