The Trump administration has decided to exempt electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, routers, and semiconductor chips from the recently imposed “reciprocal” tariffs targeting various countries, including China. According to guidance from Customs and Border Protection, around 20 items will be spared from the tariffs, offering potential relief for consumers and tech companies like Apple, which relies heavily on Chinese manufacturing.
While this move may temporarily ease price hikes on electronics, Trump has indicated that targeted tariffs on specific sectors, such as semiconductors, are still on the table—meaning the relief may be short-lived.
Earlier, the administration announced a 10% baseline tariff on imports and steeper reciprocal tariffs on many nations. Although a temporary reduction to 10% was applied to some countries to allow time for negotiation, China was excluded.
Tariffs on Chinese imports have reached 125% in some cases, on top of existing 20% levies, prompting retaliatory measures from Beijing and raising concerns of an intensifying trade war.
Despite the tensions, Trump expressed optimism, noting his strong relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping and saying he hoped for a positive resolution.
