US Exempts Smartphones and Computers from Latest Tariffs
US Exempts Smartphones and Computers from Latest Tariffs
In a significant policy shift, the United States has announced that smartphones and computers imported into the country will be exempt from the latest round of tariffs. According to a notice issued by US Customs and Border Protection, the exemption applies to products brought into the US or removed from bonded warehouses starting April 5.
These products will no longer be subject to the 10% global tariff recently introduced by President Donald Trump, nor the steep 145% tariff imposed specifically on goods from China. The move marks a relief for tech companies that manufacture their products overseasβespecially in Chinaβincluding industry giants like Apple, which assembles iPhones and other devices there.
Along with smartphones and computers, the exemptions extend to a broader range of electronic items such as semiconductors, solar cells, and memory cards. This decision is expected to ease pressure on the US tech industry and possibly stabilize retail prices amid growing trade tensions.
The US has been imposing tariffs as part of a broader strategy to protect domestic industries, reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing, and address what it considers unfair trade practicesβespecially by China. According to the Trump administration, the high tariffs are intended to encourage American companies to bring manufacturing back to the US, close trade deficits, and push back against intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers.
The announcement follows President Trumpβs controversial imposition of a minimum 145% tariff on Chinese imports, a move that had drawn criticism from business leaders and international partners. While Trump had earlier hinted at the possibility of certain tariff exemptions, the formal exclusion of key electronic products signals a strategic step to balance protectionist trade policies with domestic economic interests.
