The U.S. is preparing to impose new tariffs on key Chinese tech imports, including smartphones and semiconductors, in a move that could reshape supply chains and escalate trade tensions with Beijing.
Speaking Monday, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed that while current tariff exclusions remain in place for electronics like smartphones, computers, and other consumer goods, new sector-specific duties are under consideration.
“We’ve extended relief to American companies in the short term,” Lutnick said, referencing the temporary exclusions that benefit firms such as Apple and Dell. “But make no mistake a special focus-type of tariff targeting critical tech sectors is coming.”
The proposed tariffs will target imports of smartphones, laptops, and computing components from China. Separate, broader duties are also being drafted for semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, areas that U.S. officials say are strategically vital.
The announcement comes just weeks after Washington slapped 125% reciprocal tariffs on a separate batch of Chinese goods, marking one of the most aggressive U.S. trade actions since 2018. The new tech-focused tariffs are expected to be distinct and more narrowly tailored, aimed at reducing American reliance on Chinese manufacturing in high-tech sectors.
Analysts say the upcoming measures could disrupt global supply chains and spark countermeasures from Beijing, particularly if they impact China’s growing consumer electronics and chipmaking industries.
The Commerce Department has not yet detailed the scope or timeline for implementation, but Lutnick suggested the rollout would occur “in the coming months” following industry consultations.
U.S. tech giants have lobbied for tariff relief as they navigate rising costs and continued post-pandemic supply chain instability. The new duties, if enacted, could force major firms to accelerate diversification away from Chinese production hubs.
While the White House has framed the move as part of a broader national security strategy, Chinese officials have criticized the plan as protectionist and disruptive to global trade norms.
