Overview
- Multiple U.S. officials recently told stakeholders the rollout of semiconductor tariffs may slip from earlier expectations.
- The White House and the Commerce Department publicly say there is no change in posture on Section 232 chip duties.
- Aides are assessing geopolitical risks, including potential Chinese retaliation and pressure on supplies of rare earth materials.
- No final decision has been made, and triple‑digit tariffs remain possible under a plan that would exempt companies producing or committed to produce in the United States.
- The internal debate follows Trump’s August pledge for roughly 100% tariffs and a Busan meeting with Xi that produced a temporary trade truce during a politically sensitive holiday shopping period.