Japan vs Mexico: Solar Import Comparison 2026
Compare every aspect of importing solar panels to Japan and Mexico β tariffs, certifications, logistics, and market dynamics side by side.
Both Japan and Mexico offer distinct import dynamics. Review the metrics below to pick the right sourcing strategy for your project.
| Metric | π Japan Asia | π Mexico North America |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | 0% (GSP / MFN for Chinese modules) | 0% (duty-free for solar modules under PROSEC) |
| Anti-Dumping | None | None |
| VAT / Sales Tax | 10% consumption tax | 16% IVA |
| CBAM Applicable | β No | β No |
| Main Ports | Yokohama, Osaka, Nagoya, Kobe | Manzanillo (Pacific), LΓ‘zaro CΓ‘rdenas, Veracruz (Atlantic), Altamira |
| Typical Lead Time | 12-18 days sea freight from Shanghai | 22-28 days sea freight Pacific route from Shanghai |
| Preferred Incoterms | CIF Yokohama/Osaka, DDP | CIF Manzanillo, DDP Monterrey (for nearshoring projects) |
| Top Brands | Sharp (local), Panasonic (local), Kyocera (local), JinkoSolar, Q CELLS | JinkoSolar, LONGi, Canadian Solar, Trina Solar, JA Solar |
| Popular Wattage | 400-470W mono (residential + small C&I), tight roof fit important | 540-580W bifacial (C&I dominant), 450-550W (distributed generation) |
| Q1 2026 Landed Price | Landed CIF Yokohama TOPCon 430W: ~$0.12-0.14/W (Q1 2026). Premium market, quality-first over price. | Landed CIF Manzanillo TOPCon 560W: ~$0.10-0.11/W. Nearshoring boosts industrial rooftop demand. |
Regulatory Notes
π Japan
Japan transitioning FITβFIP (feed-in premium) reshaping project economics. JET certification mandatory and slow (3-6 months for new models). Typhoon/snow-rated mounting required. Premium over mainstream markets.
π Mexico
Nearshoring boom: US companies relocating manufacturing β huge industrial rooftop solar demand. CFE grid capacity auctions resumed. UL certification preferred (easier for cross-border projects).
JUST SOLAR β Japan Delivery
JUST SOLAR provides JET-certified modules for Japanese market β tight residential-size modules available.
JUST SOLAR β Mexico Delivery
JUST SOLAR ships via Manzanillo with UL-certified modules β ideal for US-Mexico border industrial projects.
π Sourcing to both markets?
JUST SOLAR GROUP delivers to 40+ countries worldwide with localized compliance documentation and flexible payment terms.