Renewable Energy: How trade policy supports deployment and value addition in developing countries

This paper explores global trade in solar photovoltaic and wind energy components, analysing trade flows, tariffs and non-tariff measures, with a focus on seven developing countries: the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Kenya, Mauritius, the Philippines, Senegal and Viet Nam.

The main findings are that low tariffs have reduced the cost of renewable energy deployment by enabling access to affordable imports. The analysis offers policy options for developing countries, including stronger regulatory frameworks, investment in export market knowledge, regional market expansion and capacity building in customs and standards. Trade agreements can also attract foreign investment and ease market entry of experts.