US Semiconductor Import Probe Findings Imminent, Potential Tariffs Loom

The US Commerce Department will release results of its Section 232 investigation into semiconductor imports within two weeks, a move that could reshape global tech supply chains. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the timeline following high-level talks between President TRUMP and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

This protectionist push marks a strategic divergence from the Biden administration's CHIPS Act subsidies, as Trump prioritizes tariffs to repatriate chip manufacturing. The probe examines whether foreign semiconductor dependence constitutes a national security threat—a finding that WOULD trigger new import duties.

Europe moved swiftly to mitigate fallout, securing a new trade framework that establishes 15% generic tariffs on EU imports and 25% duties on European automobiles. The agreement reflects Brussels' attempt to insulate its tech sector from potential supply chain disruptions.