Trump Announces Semiconductor Tariff Plans Amid Trade Confusion

President Trump announced plans to implement tariffs on semiconductor imports, potentially ranging from 25% to 100%, with an announcement expected soon. Confusion arose over the status of consumer electronics, as Trump indicated that smartphones and computers would also be subject to tariffs, while his administration previously exempted them temporarily to relieve consumer impact. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed that the exemption was a procedural pause, and future tariffs on electronics would be assessed separately. Meanwhile, China retaliated by raising its tariffs on U.S. goods, further escalating the ongoing trade war. The recent tariff discussions have raised concerns about supply chain disruptions and the potential for companies to shift manufacturing bases, which could benefit countries like India. Overall, the situation reflects a complex and evolving trade landscape with significant implications for global technology markets.