New tariff guidance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection includes exemptions for smartphones and computers, bringing relief to worried tech markets. The documents show tariff codes 8517.13.00 and 8471 – assigned to smartphones and PC products – appear on the exemption list.
Market watchers notice these exemptions seem to apply regardless of country of origin, meaning even Chinese-made electronics might avoid the announced 145% tariffs. This development lets companies like Apple, Dell, and HP continue normal operations without major disruption. Equipment for making semiconductors also received exemptions under code 8486, benefiting chipmakers with U.S. facilities.
The Trump administration appears to recognize how steep tariffs on essential technology products could harm American consumers. These exemptions might help limit economic damage from the trade policies. Officials haven't clarified whether these exemptions will remain permanent or just during the initial 90-day transition period.
Tech analysts caution that manufacturers could still raise prices independently despite the tariff breaks. Market observers await further details about these policies as they develop in the coming weeks.
Market watchers notice these exemptions seem to apply regardless of country of origin, meaning even Chinese-made electronics might avoid the announced 145% tariffs. This development lets companies like Apple, Dell, and HP continue normal operations without major disruption. Equipment for making semiconductors also received exemptions under code 8486, benefiting chipmakers with U.S. facilities.
The Trump administration appears to recognize how steep tariffs on essential technology products could harm American consumers. These exemptions might help limit economic damage from the trade policies. Officials haven't clarified whether these exemptions will remain permanent or just during the initial 90-day transition period.
Tech analysts caution that manufacturers could still raise prices independently despite the tariff breaks. Market observers await further details about these policies as they develop in the coming weeks.
