Taxing solar panels: Manufacturers demand end to levy

The Pakistan Solar Panels Manufacturers Association (PSMA) has expressed concern over the imposition of sales tax on solar panels. PSMA spokesperson Tanweer Ahmed Janjua said the solar panel industry was in a premature stage at the moment and will be adversely affected by the imposition of tax at such an early stage. “The sales tax will enhance prices of solar panels and undermine the public’s purchasing power,” Janjua was quoted in the press release. The emerging industry of solar panels is in need of government support as many manufacturers are facing issues in starting their business, he said. Tanweer said that the government should welcome any alternative to lessen load-shedding and local manufacturers have achieved 30% production capacity to meet local and export demands.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 19^th, 2014.