By
Tri Duc
Sat, January 31, 2026 | 10:06 am GMT+7
JA Solar, a leading global manufacturer based in China, has made a significant investment of $967 million in the northern Vietnamese province of Bac Ninh. However, the company faced a setback when it had to halt solar cell manufacturing operations in October 2024 due to new U.S. taxes imposed on solar products. This unexpected turn of events raises questions about the future of renewable energy investments in the region and the impact of international trade regulations.
Bac Ninh Chairman Pham Hoang Son (right) at a meeting with a JA Solar delegation in Bac Ninh province, northern Vietnam, January 28, 2025. Photo courtesy of Bac Ninh’s news portal.
During a recent meeting with Bac Ninh authorities, Li ShaoHui, the vice president of JA Solar, expressed the company’s concerns over the halt in solar cell production. He emphasized the importance of solar energy technology for the local and regional market. JA Solar has diversified its investment in Bac Ninh, not only focusing on solar cells but also manufacturing silicon rods and wafers, which are reportedly operating smoothly despite the challenges.
ShaoHui appealed to Bac Ninh officials for assistance in resuming solar cell production. This move is vital for JA Solar to capture a significant share of the growing Southeast Asian renewable energy market. The region is increasingly being seen as a hub for solar investments due to its optimal weather conditions and support from local governments.
In response to these concerns, Bac Ninh’s Chairman, Pham Hoang Son, acknowledged the positive impact of JA Solar’s investment on local employment and the province’s economic growth. He expressed a commitment to collaborating with JA Solar to ensure sustainable operational practices and expand their presence further in the province.
Chairman Son pointed out that provincial tax authorities are ready to engage with JA Solar to address higher tax payments imposed under the Global Minimum Tax (GMT) mechanism. This proactive approach aims to alleviate the financial burden on the company and support its sustainability goals in Vietnam.
JA Solar, known for its substantial global presence, reported revenue of $2.8 billion from its operations in Vietnam in 2023 alone, showcasing its significant footprint in the renewable energy sector. The company’s facilities in Bac Ninh are strategically located in industrial parks that were established following the merger of Bac Ninh and Bac Giang provinces last July, illustrating the region’s commitment to becoming a leader in renewable energy manufacturing.