Synopsis
The US Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, announced plans for separate tariffs on smartphone and computer imports, despite their recent exemption from reciprocal tariffs, emphasizing the need for domestic semiconductor production.Key Takeaways
- Separate tariffs for smartphones and computers coming soon.
- Emphasis on domestic semiconductor production.
- Smartphones and computers exempt from reciprocal tariffs.
- Upcoming tariffs expected within one to two months.
- Focus on reducing reliance on South Asian imports.
Washington, April 13 (NationPress) Following the US's decision to exempt electronics imports, including semiconductors, from reciprocal tariffs, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced on Sunday that the nation will introduce separate tariffs on imports of smartphones, computers, semiconductors, and other components within the next one to two months.
Lutnick emphasized the importance of manufacturing chips and flat-panel televisions domestically, as opposed to depending on imports from South Asian countries.
In an interview with ABC News, the Commerce Secretary mentioned that all of these products will fall under the category of semiconductors, and there will be a specific tariff focus aimed at ensuring these products are produced in the US.
"It is vital that we produce semiconductors, chips, and flat panels here in America. We cannot continue to rely on Southeast Asia for essential components that power our technology," he stated.
He highlighted that while smartphone and computer imports have been removed from the reciprocal tariff list, they will be incorporated into the upcoming semiconductor tariffs within the next two months.
“What President Donald Trump has indicated is they’re exempt from reciprocal tariffs, but they will be included in the semiconductor tariffs, which are expected to be implemented in about a month or two. These changes are imminent,” he conveyed to the news outlet.
On Saturday, the US government declared that it would exempt smartphones and computers from the latest tariffs.
As per a notice from US Customs and Border Protection, this exemption will apply to products entering the US or being removed from warehouses as early as April 5.
The exemptions will also cover other electronic devices and components such as semiconductors, solar cells, and memory cards.
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