By Heraldviews
President Donald Trump will impose new tariffs on semiconductors as early as next week, though some companies may receive exemptions, he told reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday.
“We
wanted to uncomplicate it from a lot of other companies because we want to make
our chips and semiconductors and other things in our country,” Mr. Trump said,
suggesting the measures would encourage domestic production.
The
move follows recent exemptions for certain electronics, including smartphones
and laptops, from broader tariffs on Chinese goods. However, Commerce Secretary
Howard Lutnick indicated that those reprieves may be short-lived, with
additional tariffs on semiconductors, computers, and pharmaceuticals expected
within two months.
The
administration has framed the upcoming duties as part of a “National Security
Tariff Investigation” targeting critical supply chains. “These measures are
designed to bring manufacturing back to the U.S.,” Mr. Lutnick said.
Last
week, U.S. Customs temporarily excluded 20 product categories, offering relief
to tech firms reliant on imported components. But Mr. Trump’s latest remarks
signal a tougher stance, with sector-specific tariffs looming.
China
responded by raising duties on U.S. imports to 125%, mirroring recent American
increases. However, it spared chips designed by U.S. firms but manufactured in
Taiwan, easing pressure on its own industries. Beijing said it was reviewing
its tariff exemptions, leaving room for further retaliation.
The
semiconductor industry, already grappling with global shortages, now faces
renewed uncertainty as trade tensions escalate.
With additional
agency report
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