Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-08-21 Origin: Site
Solar wafer prices have recorded a sharp increase this week, driven by stronger overseas demand and short-term supply constraints across the PV supply chain.
According to the China Silicon Industry Association, the average transaction price of N-type G10L wafers (182×183.75 mm) rose to RMB 1.12 per piece, increasing 40% week on week. The price of N-type G12R wafers reached RMB 1.14 per piece, up 26.67%, while N-type G12 wafers climbed to RMB 1.22 per piece, up 10.91%.
Upstream price increases have also spread to downstream segments. Mainstream solar cell prices rose to RMB 0.33–0.35/W, up 23.64% from the previous week, while module prices increased slightly to RMB 0.69–0.71/W.
Industry analysis suggests that the sudden wafer price jump was mainly driven by a surge in downstream purchasing.
Although China’s domestic solar installation demand remains relatively stable, overseas cell manufacturers have accelerated wafer purchases to reduce potential risks related to U.S. trade policies, creating a concentrated buying wave.
Meanwhile, India's traditional solar installation season has also boosted export demand, further tightening wafer supply.
The combination of stronger demand and a “buy before prices rise further” market sentiment has pushed prices higher in the short term.
Despite rising prices, industry production capacity has not increased significantly. Overall PV wafer production rates remained largely unchanged from the previous week, with major manufacturers operating at relatively moderate levels.
Because production cannot quickly expand to meet the sudden increase in demand, short-term supply shortages have become more visible.
Notably, 183 mm wafers, which are mainly supplied to overseas markets, experienced the largest price increase compared with other wafer sizes, reflecting stronger international demand.
The current wafer price rally highlights the growing influence of global trade policies and overseas demand on the PV supply chain. Whether the trend can continue will depend on future order levels, inventory changes and the pace of capacity recovery.
