The Trump administration is exploring a new round of sweeping import tariffs on semiconductors, according to Politico, which cites eight sources familiar with the discussions. The American tech sector warns that such measures could weaken the United States’ AI ambitions.
Spectrum of products
One proposal under review would significantly broaden the list of technology products subject to tariffs. This could extend beyond chips themselves to devices that rely on them, including laptops, game consoles, and data centre servers.
According to four sources, the government is also considering a phased rollout of the tariffs. They note that the plan may still undergo substantial changes in the coming weeks or months. US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick reportedly supports a system granting tariff exemptions to foreign companies investing in domestic chip production. This move is aimed at boosting US manufacturing capacity.
Concerns
The possibility of new chip tariffs is causing unease across the American technology industry. Companies are already grappling with shortages of advanced semiconductors, while demand continues to surge due to rapid data‑center expansion. The US relies heavily on imported chips from a small group of Asian countries, including Malaysia, South Korea, and Taiwan. Taiwan alone produces more than 90 percent of the world’s most advanced semiconductors.
Industry representatives say they support the goal of increasing domestic chip production. However, they stress that building semiconductor factories requires billions in investment and years of development.
@anp | NEWSBRAINPORT
