The United States has postponed planned tariff increases on semiconductor imports from the Chinese mainland to June 2027, according to a Federal Register filing published by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) on December 23, 2025. The decision follows a year-long Section 301 investigation initiated on December 23, 2024, which labeled China's semiconductor industry policies as "unreasonable."
Under the new measures, semiconductor imports from the Chinese mainland will face zero tariffs for the next 18 months, with future rates to be announced at least 30 days before implementation. Analysts view the delay as an effort to stabilize trade relations between the two economic powers, particularly as the 50% tariff imposed by the Biden administration on January 1, 2025, remains unchanged.
CNBC reported that the Trump administration's decision reflects a strategic pause to avoid escalating tensions. Market observers note the move could provide temporary relief for global tech supply chains, though long-term uncertainties persist. The USTR emphasized that further actions will depend on "progress in bilateral negotiations" over the coming months.
This development comes amid heightened competition in advanced chip manufacturing, with the Chinese mainland investing heavily in domestic semiconductor production. Industry leaders warn that prolonged trade friction could disrupt efforts to address global shortages in critical electronics components.
