Trump's olive branch to China? US exempts smartphones & computers from global tariffs

In a significant shift, the Trump administration has exempted smartphones, computers, and other high-tech electronics from its sweeping “reciprocal” global tariffs—softening the potential blow to American consumers amid rising trade tensions .

The exemptions were made public late Friday in a notice by the US Customs and Border Protection, sparing a wide range of electronics from steep import duties, including those originating from China. This includes products like smartphones and computer components, which had faced an additional 145% tariff under the administration’s aggressive trade measures.

Semiconductors have also been spared from a baseline 10% tariff that applies to imports from most of the United States' trading partners.

The reversal comes after mounting pressure from industry groups warning of increased consumer prices and disruption to tech supply chains. The decision marks a tactical retreat as the White House seeks to balance trade brinkmanship with economic realities at home.