African countries imported a record amount of solar panels from China

African countries imported a record 15,032 MW of solar panels from China in the year ending June 2025, a 60% increase from the previous year. Nigeria surpassed Egypt as the second-largest importer. This surge reflects efforts to electrify the continent, but Africa's manufacturing capacity remains low, being dependent on foreign suppliers, particularly China, which dominates the supply chain.

South Africa has made progress with panel assembly but struggles with infrastructure and logistics. A new import duty in South Africa aims to protect local producers but could raise costs. Analysts highlight that despite assembly lines, most economic benefits stay limited to final assembly, the least profitable part of production. Africa faces a critical choice: rely on imports for quick electrification or invest in local manufacturing for long-term sustainability.