The U.S. government has launched an investigation to determine whether it is necessary to restrict imports of semiconductors and pharmaceuticals from a national security perspective through tariffs. Tariffs on these items are expected to be implemented soon.
On the 14th (local time), the U.S. Department of Commerce stated through the Federal Register that it has begun an investigation to assess the impact of imports of ▲semiconductors ▲semiconductor manufacturing equipment ▲derivative products on national security.
This is a measure based on Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which grants the president the authority to restrict imports through appropriate measures such as tariffs if it is determined that the import of specific items poses a threat to national security.
The Department of Commerce also noted that it has initiated an investigation regarding pharmaceuticals and pharmaceutical raw materials under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act.
President Trump previously announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on steel, aluminum, and automotive parts, and indicated that he would apply tariffs to semiconductors and pharmaceuticals as well.