Trump's Reciprocal Tariffs: Smartphones, Laptops, Chips Exempted in Latest Move

[ABS News Service/14.04.2025]

US President Donald Trump's administration has exempted mobile phones, computers, and semiconductor chips from the reciprocal tariffs.

The announcement comes amid growing concerns over trade tensions, particularly with China. Trump clarified that while his proposed tariff policy would target countries with "unfair" trade practices, key tech imports vital to US consumers and industries would be spared, says a CNBC report.

Smartphones, laptops, and key tech components will be excluded from President Donald Trump's newly introduced reciprocal tariffs, according to updated guidance issued by US Customs and Border Protection.

The clarification follows Trump's recent decision to impose major American tech firms, particularly Apple, which manufactures most of its products in China.

In a partial rollback, US authorities have now exempted not just mobile phones and computers, but also critical hardware such as semiconductors, solar cells, flat-panel TV displays, flash drives, memory cards, and solid-state drives. The exclusions appear aimed at shielding the U.S. tech sector and consumers from the brunt of potential price hikes and supply chain disruptions.

Trump's imposition of 125% reciprocal tariffs on Chinese imports prompted a mixed global reaction. While some nations supported the aggressive move as a means to level the playing field, others, particularly tech firms, raised alarms about the potential economic fallout. Apple's concerns were particularly pronounced, as most of its products are manufactured in China.

However, in a strategic reversal, the US has exempted smartphones, laptops, and critical tech components like semiconductors and solar cells from these tariffs, alleviating pressure on tech companies and consumers alike. Countries such as China have retaliated with countermeasures, further escalating trade tensions, while the U.S. seeks to maintain leverage in its ongoing trade negotiations.