With low public feedback, the US may slam steep duties on imported semiconductors, risking global supply chains and industry shifts. Tariff tremors continue to shake the chip world.
With the public comment period for the US Section 232 semiconductor investigation ending today, industry observers are bracing for the possible imposition of steep import tariffs on chips and related technology.
Concerns are growing that President Donald Trump’s camp could interpret the lack of public feedback as support for such measures.
According to Taiwan’s Economic Daily News, previous Section 232 probes, including those on copper and lumber, drew hundreds of comments. In contrast, the current semiconductor inquiry has received only ten responses, sparking fears that tariffs may soon follow.
Taiwan’s Commercial Times reported that Trump could announce tariffs as early as this week. The proposed rates may range between 25 per cent and 100 per cent, potentially targeting chips based on their “wafer-out” location—where the semiconductor is physically manufactured.
The US Department of Commerce launched the probe on April 16, citing national security risks tied to foreign semiconductor supply chains. The investigation covers a broad range of products, from legacy and advanced chips to microelectronics, substrates, and semiconductor manufacturing equipment (SME).
As per a TrendForce report, analysts warn that tariffs could have sweeping consequences, particularly for Taiwan’s chip industry and leading foundries like TSMC. If tariffs are imposed based on manufacturing location, US clients might redirect orders to South Korea or Japan to avoid higher costs. China could also accelerate its push for domestic chip independence.
While such a step may incentivise chip production within the US, experts caution it could also disrupt supply chains, extend delivery times, and reduce the competitiveness of American firms in the global market.
The industry now awaits Washington’s next move. The silence during the comment period leaves the door open for sweeping policy shifts.
