Trump’s new tariffs put global chipmakers in crosshairs
Currency strategists at Bernstein have raised a pressing question: What do US President Donald Trump’s new tariffs mean for chip manufacturers? This issue opens the door to both speculation and serious forecasts. It is a topic that demands attention.
According to Bernstein analysts, US trade policy is undergoing significant changes, and Trump’s latest round of tariffs could prove pivotal for the global economy. They emphasize that ultimately, these tariffs may become a long-term fixture.
Recently, the president signed an executive order increasing tariffs to 50% for certain countries. Experts believe this move reflects Trump's effort to reshape the global trade system, which he views as unfair and contrary to US interests. These new duties were set to take effect on Thursday, August 7.
Under this plan, major industrial economies such as Europe, Japan, and South Korea will face tariffs of 15%, while other nations with a trade surplus with the US will be subject to 10% duties.
Meanwhile, countries like Brazil will be hit with the maximum rate of 50%. Previously, Trump raised tariffs on Canadian goods to 35%, targeting products that do not align with the terms of the US–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), a trade deal signed during Trump’s first term.
Bernstein analysts believe the current situation is adding strain to the market. “Despite the lack of deals, there may be more clarity on tariffs and trade, for now, for businesses to plan around,” analysts said. At the same time, the market seems increasingly accustomed to ignoring Trump’s tariff rhetoric. Still, we are moving closer to a reality in which his tariff strategy becomes permanent.
Experts also warn that Washington could potentially extend tariffs to sectors such as semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. For chipmakers, this could mean duties on related devices as well as on the production of components critical to the industry.