President Trump's unexpected announcement of possible new tariffs on Chinese electronics, following a recent exemption, has sparked uncertainty in the global market. This follows a pattern of on-again, off-again tariff policies.
While initially granting exemptions on tariffs for various electronics, including smartphones and laptops, Trump hinted at reintroducing tariffs as early as Monday. He later stated on Truth Social that the entire electronics supply chain might face tariffs under national security legislation.
Beyond electronics, the administration plans to implement tariffs on pharmaceuticals, potentially impacting Canada significantly due to its large generic drug exports to the U.S. This move could raise medicine costs for Americans and harm Canada's economy.
Experts express concern over the lack of a coherent plan regarding tariffs, highlighting the negative impacts on the markets and the cost of goods. China's Commerce Ministry urged Trump to remove all tariffs. Trump's actions are also seen as a challenge to the Biden administration's CHIPS Act.