The Trump administration is considering a broad new series of tariffs on imported semiconductors, according to a Thursday report from Politico.
The policy proposal could significantly expand the reach of U.S. trade duties across the technology supply chain.
Citing eight people familiar with internal discussions, the outlet reported that the proposed framework would extend beyond standalone microchips to include consumer and enterprise devices containing foreign chips.
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Affected categories under consideration include laptops, gaming consoles, and data center servers.
Under the proposal under discussion, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick favors a structure that links tariff exemptions for foreign firms directly to their domestic manufacturing commitments.
The plan would grant relief to international technology companies proportional to their investments in U.S. chip fabrication, with the goal of expanding domestic production.
Administration officials are also evaluating a phased implementation period for the potential duties. Sources emphasized to Politico that the proposal remains in development and could undergo significant revisions in the coming weeks or months.
In an emailed statement regarding the report, a White House official stressed the administration’s focus on domestic manufacturing while cautioning against unconfirmed plans.
“Reshoring critical manufacturing back to the United States is a top priority for President Trump, and the Administration has implemented a nimble, nuanced, and multi-faceted approach to drive trillions in voluntary investments in key sectors,” the White House official said. “Unless officially announced by the Administration, any reporting about tariffs should be regarded as baseless speculation.”
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The report emphasizes ongoing policy discussions surrounding global technology supply chains and foreign semiconductor dependence.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated in May that no new semiconductor tariffs were imminent at that time, though he noted that trade measures remain an important tool to protect the sector and encourage domestic production.