April 1 VAT Rebate Cut Hits Chinese Glass Exporters

China officially canceled VAT export rebates on glass products starting April 1, 2026. The policy covers optical glass, safety glass, LCD substrate glass, conductive glass, and daily glass.

The rebate was typically 9-13% of export value. Without it, Chinese suppliers face a direct cost increase of the same amount. Lens Technology, Biel Crystal, and Tunghsu are all affected.

Early signs of the impact are emerging. Multiple Chinese glass exporters raised prices 8-12% in late March before the policy took effect. Some small manufacturers stopped accepting new export orders entirely, preferring to focus on domestic sales.

The policy is not an accident. Beijing wants to eliminate low-value-added exporters that compete only on price. The stated goal is pushing the industry toward higher technology content and brand value.

What to watch in the coming weeks: Price increase announcements from major Chinese cover glass suppliers. Also watch for which smaller players exit the export market entirely.

For international buyers: Lock in pricing now if you have not already. Or start qualifying non-Chinese sources. The era of cheap Chinese cover glass is ending.