Do Son 
Although the Trump administration recently clarified the scope of tariff exemptions—ensuring that products such as iPhones would not be subject to steep import duties, but rather only a standard 10% surtax—U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnic revealed in an interview with ABC News that the situation is not as widely understood. Instead, he disclosed that a reclassification under the category of “semiconductor tariffs” is being considered, with a new taxation framework expected to be announced within the next one to two months.
Lutnic explained that the U.S. government remains committed to reshoring the production of critical components such as semiconductors and display panels, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. To this end, a tailored tariff structure will be implemented to “encourage” American semiconductor companies to relocate their production lines back to the United States. He added that such a move could also stimulate the return of other industries, including healthcare, to domestic soil.
Furthermore, Lutnic emphasized that these products will not be included in any general exemption lists and that compliance from relevant manufacturers will be mandated based on national security considerations.
At present, the precise scope and tax structure of the proposed “semiconductor tariff” classification remain unclear. The extent of its financial impact is also yet to be determined, but it is apparent that this policy could significantly affect products manufactured abroad yet intended for sale within the United States.
