(In United State) Trump spares smartphones, computers from his 125% China tariffs

 

The US government has exempted smartphones, computers and other electronics from President Donald Trump's 125% tariffs on Chinese goods. The exclusions, announced by the US Customs and Border Protection agency, apply to 20 product categories, including computers, laptops, semiconductor devices and flat-panel displays. 

This move provides relief to major tech firms like Apple and Dell Technologies, sparing them from steep reciprocal duties.

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The exemptions are retroactive to April 5 and only apply to Trump's reciprocal tariffs on Chinese goods. Trump's prior 20% duties on all Chinese imports remain in place. 

The Trump administration's decision suggests growing awareness of the impact of tariffs on inflation-weary consumers, particularly for popular products like smartphones and laptops. Analysts predicted that a 54% tariff rate on Chinese imports could increase the price of a top-end Apple iPhone to $2,300 from $1,599.

The tariffs are part of Trump's broader economic agenda, aiming to reduce reliance on China for critical technologies like semiconductors and chips. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump has directed major tech firms to onshore their manufacturing in the US as soon as possible. 

However, economists warn that Trump's tariff proposals could lead to higher costs for Americans, reduced economic growth and increased prices for consumers.