Smartphones, computers, and a few other devices that are mostly imported from China are exempt from high reciprocal duties under the administration of US President Donald Trump.
The US Customs and Border Protection agency, in a notice to shippers, published a list of tariff codes excluded from the import taxes, with retroactive effect from 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT) on April 5.
It is said to have featured 20 product categories, including the broad 8471 code for all computers, laptops, disc drives, and automatic data processing.
It also included semiconductor devices, equipment, memory chips, and flat panel displays.
The notice, however, did not give any explanation for the move, but the late-night exclusion reportedly provides welcome relief to major technology firms such as Apple, Dell Technologies, and many other importers.
DAILY POST reports that Trump’s action also excludes the specified electronics from his 10% “baseline” tariffs on goods from most countries other than China, easing import costs for semiconductors from Taiwan and Apple iPhones produced in India.
Trump, when asked on Saturday about his reason for the exemptions and plans for semiconductors, said he would give them that answer on Monday.
“We’ll be very specific on Monday…we’re taking in a lot of money, as a country, we’re taking in a lot of money,” he said.
Written By Matthew Atungwu