Washington, Jan 15 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump has announced that he has enacted two new trade measures under Section 232. These actions are aimed at critical minerals and the importation of semiconductors.

According to White House Staff Secretary Will Scharf, the first measure is a response to a trade investigation concerning critical minerals. This initiative is intended to establish a process for safeguarding US supply chains related to critical minerals and associated products.

The second measure zeroes in on semiconductors. Scharf explained that this sets forth a two-stage process, with the initial phase imposing a 25% tariff on specific imported semiconductors.

This tariff will be applied to chips brought into the United States that are not utilized domestically for the development of artificial intelligence or computing systems.

Moreover, semiconductors that are transported through the US to other nations will also incur this tariff.

Trump stated that this initiative will generate revenue for the United States, indicating that foreign buyers are eager for these chips and that the US would retain 25% of their value. He characterized these chips as “very good,” albeit not the most cutting-edge.

The president remarked that tariffs have successfully brought in hundreds of billions of dollars to the country and bolstered national security.

When questioned about a legal challenge to his tariff authority currently pending before the Supreme Court, Trump expressed disbelief that such a case exists. He labeled it an attempt by “very China-centric individuals” who do not wish for the United States to thrive.

Trump asserted that tariffs have contributed to diminishing trade imbalances and attracting investment. He mentioned that the US has witnessed $18 trillion in investment commitments since his return to office.

Furthermore, he claimed that tariffs have played a role in reducing inflation and enhancing productivity. He noted that they have been leveraged in foreign policy and trade discussions.

Pointing to recent manufacturing developments, he cited the expansion of auto plants and new investments from major car manufacturers as proof of these measures' efficacy.

Trump emphasized that tariffs have also positioned the US favorably against China, stating, “We’re performing excellently against China.”

He expressed that a ruling against his tariff authority would be “very disappointing” and did not specify how the administration would respond if the court restricts his powers.

In closing, the president referred to the United States as “the hottest country anywhere in the world,” contrasting it with what he described as economic frailty prior to his return to office.