U.S. Aims for Chip Independence with Tariff Strategy

President Donald Trump will announce a new semiconductor tariff strategy on April 14, signaling a major push to boost domestic tech manufacturing and cut reliance on China. The policy, set under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, frames semiconductors as national security assets—alongside defense, communication, and consumer tech.

“America cannot rely on China to manufacture critical technologies,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

What’s in the Tariff Plan?

Key Highlights: 

• Tariffs aimed at imported semiconductors, especially from China.

• Expected exemptions for some consumer electronics to ease disruption.

• Intended to incentivize U.S. chip manufacturing and reduce foreign exposure.

📲 Apple & Big Tech:

Firms like Apple, which rely heavily on Chinese assembly lines, are expected to expand U.S. operations in response to the policy shift.

📈 Analyst Reactions:

• Dan Ives of Wedbush: “This move could unlock a surge in U.S.-based chip investment.”

• Others warn of short-term cost spikes in smartphones, laptops, and consumer devices.

Trade Tensions Loom

Tariff History Repeats?

• Section 232 was used in Trump’s steel tariffs, sparking retaliation from China.

• Analysts caution similar risks if trade partners respond with countermeasures.

But the stakes are different now:

The global chip race has become a core battleground in economic and technological leadership. A robust domestic chip supply is seen as a national priority amid geopolitical tensions.