Trump exempts PCs and PC parts from “Reciprocal Tariffs”
Trump exempts smartphones, PCs, and PC parts and accessories from the US’ harshest tariffs
The Trump Administration has officially exempted smartphones, computers, and some PC parts from the nation’s “reciprocal tariffs.” This was confirmed by new tariff guidance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
The CBP’s tariff guidance includes exemptions for codes 8517.13.00, 8471, and 8473.30. The first of these codes applies to smartphones, and the latter two apply to PCs and associated parts and accessories.
These exemptions will be welcome news to anyone working in the tech sector and anyone interested in PC hardware. The tariffs imposed a 125% levy on imported Chinese goods and a 10% levy on goods from other nations. These exemptions came due to concerns that the price of electronics would skyrocket in the US. This is due to the amount of tech that comes to the US from China.
When combined with an additional 20% duty, tariffs on Chinese goods are set at 145%. Now, goods that are exempt from the US’ “reciprocal tariffs” have a 20% duty. This is a major step down for the US, as one of the stated reasons behind the US’ tariffs was to bring tech jobs back to the US.
The PC market may be safe, but consoles still face tariffs
It’s worth noting that while PCs, PC parts, and accessories are now exempt from most tariffs, gamers on consoles may still be hit hard. Today’s exemptions do not include consoles. This presents problems for gaming companies like Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft. This is especially true for Nintendo, as they plan to release their new Switch 2 console in June.
While today’s news will bring a lot of relief to PC enthusiasts, it remains uncertain what the future holds for the US and its tariff policies. Will these exemptions remain in place? Will more goods gain exemptions in the future? What will happen after the US’ “90-day” pause on tariffs for most nations? Nothing is certain.
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