Trump warns exemptions on smartphones, electronics will be short-lived, promises future tariffs
As the world becomes increasingly reliant on digital technology, the tariffs applied to smartphones and computers are set to undergo significant changes. With exemptions that have been in place for some time expiring soon, consumers and businesses alike need to prepare for potentially higher costs.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Chinese-made electronics, including smartphones, will still be affected by tariffs — though not under the previously mentioned 125% levy. Instead, these products will now fall under a separate “semiconductor tariff” category, signaling a shift rather than an exemption.
This update came after European stock markets rallied on Monday 15th April 2025 morning, following Friday’s news that some electronics would be excluded from the heightened tariff list. However, Trump later refuted that claim via social media, clarifying that no exemptions were granted — only that such items were now placed in a different tariff classification.
Trump emphasized that the U.S. is undertaking a broader review of the electronics supply chain as part of upcoming national security tariff investigations, specifically focusing on semiconductors. He’s expected to outline further details on this semiconductor-specific duty soon.
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U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick supported the move, stating that America must prioritize domestic production of critical items like semiconductors, electronics, and medicines. These levies come on top of global tariffs that were implemented earlier in the month, then temporarily paused for a 90-day evaluation period.
A U.S. customs memo on Saturday had hinted that smartphones, laptops, and certain other tech products might avoid the 125% import duty. But Trump dismissed those interpretations, reiterating that the tariff restructuring doesn’t mean an exemption — only a reclassification.
Semiconductors – essential components in everyday electronics — remain central to this trade discussion. Laptops, gaming consoles, and smartphones all rely heavily on these chips for their functionality.
On the same day, April 15, 2025, Sony announced a 10% price hike on its PlayStation 5 consoles across Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, citing inflation and currency volatility. The U.S. market was not affected by this pricing update.
Meanwhile, Beijing has reacted cautiously. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce described Washington’s slight adjustment as a “minor step” and said China is currently assessing its implications. However, U.S. officials hinted that further tariffs may be on the horizon, casting doubt on any near-term resolution in the escalating trade dispute.
In April, Trump initially imposed a 54% tariff on Chinese imports, which quickly jumped to 145%. In response, China introduced its own series of retaliatory tariffs — beginning at 34% and rising to 125% over successive rounds.
Chinese officials maintain that they are prepared to counter continued U.S. aggression, vowing to “fight to the end” should America persist with its high-stakes trade tactics.
Despite Trump’s assertion that the tariff strategy will help restore U.S. manufacturing and balance global trade, economists warn of potential fallout. These actions have already triggered volatility in financial markets and sparked concerns over reduced international trade volumes, job losses, and economic slowdown across multiple regions.
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