The Donald Trump The government is reportedly considering imposing new tariffs on imported semiconductors while introducing exemptions aimed at protecting big tech companies’ AI expansion.
Targeted relief rates for AI giants
The move comes as companies rush to build data centers that will power the artificial intelligence boom.
TSMC investment linked to exemptions
is central to the plan Taiwanese semiconductor manufacturing company (NYSE:TSM)The world’s largest contract chipmaker and a key supplier to U.S. technology companies.
The waiver framework would tie tariff relief to the size of TSMC’s investments in U.S. manufacturing, the report said.
TSMC has pledged to invest $165 billion to expand its U.S. footprint, part of Washington’s broader efforts to reduce dependence on foreign chip manufacturing.
Under a US-Taiwan trade deal, Taiwanese companies building semiconductor factories in the US would be allowed to import chips tariff-free in proportion to their planned domestic capacity.
TSMC could then pass these exemptions on to its US customers.
White House continues to apply pressure
While the exceptions provide relief, state officials emphasized that the plan is still evolving.
One official told the publication that policymakers will keep a close eye on the program to ensure it does not become a “giveaway to TSMC” and that it aligns with the government’s broader tariff goals.
TSMC, the Commerce Department and the White House did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.
Limited rates already apply
The move forced a deal with the White House that allowed Nvidia to ship its H200 chips to China in exchange for a 25% government cut in sales.
Currently, only a limited number of chips imported into the US and then re-exported to China are subject to tariffs. Chips used for domestic AI infrastructure have so far been excluded.
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Disclaimer: This content was produced in part using AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga’s editorial staff.
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