Pakistan Revises Customs Values for 14 Types of Solar Inverters Imported from China
The Directorate General of Customs Valuation in Karachi has announced new customs values for 14 different types of solar inverters imported from China. This update aims to provide greater accuracy in valuation and reflect actual market trends, especially as the demand for solar energy solutions continues to rise across Pakistan.
Why Were the Solar Inverter Prices Re-Evaluated?
The latest customs values were issued under a new Valuation Ruling following concerns from importers who claimed that the earlier values, set by Valuation Ruling No. 1913/2024 (dated November 5, 2024), were unrealistically high.
The matter was escalated under Section 25-D of the Customs Act, 1969, prompting the Director General of Customs Valuation to issue a revision order (No. 08/2025, dated February 4, 2025). This order directed a fresh evaluation of prices and recommended more specific categorization based on inverter capacities.
Importer Concerns and Industry Feedback
Importers emphasized that a more nuanced classification—especially based on capacity and functionality—would ensure fair pricing and better represent actual market values.
In response, customs officials initiated a review process and invited stakeholders to submit documents, including:
-
Export Goods Declarations (GDs)
-
Letters of Credit (LCs)
-
Relevant banking and shipping records
This approach ensured that the new customs values were based on verifiable market data.
Clarification on Types of Solar Inverters
The valuation process also addressed confusion regarding different types of inverters, especially “off-grid” inverters. To remove ambiguity, detailed definitions were shared:
🔌 Hybrid Inverters
-
Support solar power, batteries, and grid connectivity.
-
Can feed excess electricity back to the grid.
-
Typically have separate terminals for exporting power.
âš¡ On-Grid Inverters
-
Operate only when connected to the grid.
-
No battery backup.
-
Shut down during a power outage.
🔋 Off-Grid Inverters
-
Function independently of the grid.
-
Rely on solar panels, batteries, and optional AC input (from a generator or grid).
-
Do not support net metering (cannot send electricity back to the grid).
-
Ideal for areas with unstable or no grid access.
✅ Note: The presence of an AC input does not qualify an inverter as hybrid—this distinction was emphasized in the updated definitions.
What This Means for Importers and Consumers
The new customs ruling will bring transparency, fairness, and accuracy to the import process of solar inverters. It is expected to stabilize pricing in the renewable energy market and support Pakistan’s broader efforts to promote clean energy solutions.
With growing investment in solar technology, clear definitions and fair valuations can also help boost confidence among importers, suppliers, and consumers alike.
