First Solar to Profit If Trump Slaps Tariffs on Panel Imports

First Solar Inc. is standing on the sidelines of a trade dispute that could give its products a significant leg up.

The U.S. International Trade Commission has scheduled a hearing Aug. 15 on a request by Suniva Inc. for the U.S. to impose tariffs on imported solar panels. The petition alleges that China—which accounts for more than 80 percent of global solar panel production—gives manufacturers unfair government support.

The commission is expected to make a decision next month, and a finding of harm could lead President Trump to impose duties as early as November.

The petition by Suniva, which filed ...