Pakistan Emerges as World’s Third-Largest Solar Panel Importer

Pakistan has rapidly climbed the ranks to become the third-largest importer of solar panels globally, a development tied closely to soaring electricity costs and an increased shift toward renewable energy. This trend marks a significant milestone in the country’s evolving Pakistan import & export sector and reflects a broader push toward energy independence.

According to industry insiders, 2,000 to 2,500 containers of solar panels are arriving at Pakistani ports each month, a volume that has strained freight forwarding in Pakistan and demanded greater efficiency in custom clearance in Pakistan to meet growing domestic needs.

In 2024 alone, Pakistan imported an estimated 17 gigawatts worth of solar panels, primarily from China, Germany, and other major exporters. The cost of solar has plummeted from Rs110 per watt to just Rs27, making solar-powered solutions — from household appliances like irons to air conditioners — more affordable than ever.

This surge in imports highlights Pakistan’s strengthening international trade relations, especially with countries leading the charge in solar manufacturing. The local market has responded enthusiastically, with solar technology now widely available and accessible to both urban and rural consumers.

As demand for clean energy rises, this shift continues to stimulate the freight forwarding and custom clearance industries in Pakistan, positioning the country as a growing hub in the Pakistan import & export sector for renewable technologies.

 

Written by: Taha Masood Quddusi