IN DEPTH: Chinese policy tested by Suntech crisis

Suntech has not reported a profit since the first quarter of 2011

Suntech has not reported a profit since the first quarter of 2011

China’s fervent support of its solar industry is about to face its biggest test yet, as its flagship panel maker, Suntech, comes dangerously close to defaulting on a $541m bond.

The company's financials are in a perilous state after a potential fraud issue emerged last year to compound an ever-worsening cash flow.

The world's largest panel maker as recently as last year, Suntech has not reported a profit since the first quarter of 2011. Debts – $2.2bn at the end of March 2012, the last quarter for which it reported results - are mounting after two years of falling panel prices and growing losses.

With a $541m convertible bond due next week, and nowhere near enough cash to pay bondholders back, the steps taken by the company (and Log in to read complete article.

Become a Recharge subscriber!

Or try our free trial.

Order Subscription

Already a member?

Login