Trump considers new semiconductor tariffs
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The gist
Trump administration weighs new semiconductor tariffs on chips and tech products. The move could raise costs for AI data centers and tech giants.
Background
The Trump administration is reportedly considering a new round of sweeping tariffs on semiconductors and related tech products, including laptops, data center servers, and gaming hardware. This is part of a broader effort to boost domestic chip production, but it comes amid a shortage of high-end chips and skyrocketing demand driven by AI infrastructure. Tech companies warn the move could undermine U.S. ambitions in AI.
How it unfolded
- Aug 24, 2026AP reports Trump is moving toward a new tariff on China for flooding the market with cheap goods, adding to existing tariffs.
- Aug 27, 2026Politico reports the administration is considering new semiconductor tariffs, with Commerce Secretary Lutnick favoring tariff relief tied to U.S. investment.
- Aug 27, 2026CNBC confirms the report, citing eight people familiar with the matter; White House says reshoring semiconductor manufacturing is a top priority.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- White House: 'Reshoring semiconductor manufacturing is a top priority for President Trump, whose policies have already secured hundreds of billions of dollars of investments.'
- Tech Industry
- Tech companies warn the tariffs could doom U.S. hopes of dominating artificial intelligence, given the chip shortage and high demand.
- Analysts
- Advocates for the sector say they support the goal of domestic production but note advanced chip factories cost billions and take years to build.
Still unverified
The specific tariff rates and the exact list of products are not confirmed; the report is based on eight unnamed sources. The White House did not confirm details to CNBC.