US President Donald Trump said he would announce new tariffs on semiconductor chip imports this week, but he also suggested that individual companies could be targeted, particularly for products like iPhones and tablets, Axios reports.
The White House previously said that smartphones and computers would not be subject to the 125% import tariffs imposed on goods from China, where Apple manufactures most of its devices.
However, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the easing was temporary and that restrictions could be extended to smartphones, depending on the outcome of further national security investigations.
Trump confirmed to reporters aboard Air Force One that the administration is exploring the possibility of restricting imports across the entire electronics supply chain. He stressed his desire to bring manufacturing of chips and electronic components back to the United States, saying the government would try not to create undue hardship for businesses.
While Trump did not specify which products could receive an exemption, he confirmed that there would be flexibility for “some products.”