The US Customs and Border Protection announced a major policy adjustment late Friday, exempting smartphones, computers, and select electronics from contested "reciprocal tariffs." The exemption applies to goods entering the US after April 5, with refunds available for tariffs already paid.
Financial analysts labeled the move a surprising reversal. "This is a massive U-turn in tariff policy," noted the Kobeissi Letter, a financial newsletter on social media platform X. The decision is expected to ease price pressures on consumers and boost multinational tech giants like Apple and Samsung, according to Bloomberg.
US tariff strategies have drawn criticism for destabilizing markets and sparking intra-party dissent. Former Vice President Mike Pence and other Republican figures have publicly challenged the policies, citing economic uncertainty. The latest exemption marks a potential recalibration of trade priorities ahead of upcoming elections.
While markets are likely to welcome the relief, lingering questions remain about long-term US trade strategy. Analysts advise businesses to monitor for further updates as geopolitical and domestic pressures evolve.
