This Presidential Proclamation, issued under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, addresses the finding that imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivatives threaten U.S. national security due to insufficient domestic production capacity.
The President adopts a two-phase plan, beginning with directing negotiations with foreign jurisdictions while immediately imposing a 25 percent ad valorem tariff on a narrow category of advanced computing chips unless the importation supports U.S. technology supply chain buildout or domestic manufacturing.
The proclamation aims to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains essential for defense and critical infrastructure development.
Arguments For
The action is necessary to address a critical national security vulnerability identified by the Secretary of Commerce through a Section 232 investigation, focusing on the U.S. dependence on foreign sources for essential semiconductors.
Imposing tariffs, even selectively in a first phase, incentivizes the development of domestic manufacturing capabilities for semiconductors and related equipment, strengthening the U.S. technology supply chain.
Protecting the supply chain for semiconductors is crucial because these components are foundational to modern defense systems (radar, cybersecurity, guidance) and 16 critical infrastructure sectors (energy, communications, medical).
The phased approach allows for immediate protective measures (25% tariff on specific AI-related chips) while simultaneously pursuing diplomatic solutions through trade negotiations to create a long-term, stable supply.
Arguments Against
Imposing duties immediately raises trade barriers and could subject U.S. manufacturers relying on imported advanced chips to higher initial costs, potentially slowing down domestic AI innovation unless specific exemptions are utilized.
Section 232 actions inherently carry the risk of retaliation from foreign trading partners regarding other U.S. exports, potentially harming broader U.S. trade relationships and economic stability.
The proclamation creates complexity in customs administration by establishing numerous exemptions for domestic use, R&D, startups, and various industrial applications, requiring significant administrative oversight to prevent circumvention.
Relying on tariffs as a primary adjustment mechanism might be less efficient than direct subsidies or grants for domestic manufacturing compared to the broader economic impacts of trade restrictions.
Presidential Actions
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
1. On December 22, 2025, the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) transmitted to me a report on his investigation into the effects of imports of semiconductors (semiconductors or chips), semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products on the national security of the United States under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended, 19 U.S.C. 1862 (section 232). Based on the facts considered in that investigation, and taking into account the close relation of the economic welfare of the Nation to our national security and other relevant factors, see 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), the Secretary found and advised me of his opinion that semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products are being imported into the United States in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security of the United States.
2. The Secretary found that the present quantities and circumstances of imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products pose a threat to the national security and economy. The United States’ capacity to produce semiconductors, certain semiconductor manufacturing equipment such as advanced lithography and etching tools, and their derivative products is insufficient to meet domestic demand. This has led the United States to be dependent on foreign sources to meet domestic demand for semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products.
3. The Secretary found that semiconductors are essential to the United States’ economic, industrial, and military strength. Modern defense systems depend on high-performance semiconductors for radar and communication systems, electronic warfare and cybersecurity systems, and guidance and control systems for missiles and drones. Furthermore, defense systems often require specialized semiconductors that can withstand extreme environments. This reliance on semiconductors is expected only to increase.
4. The Secretary found that semiconductors are essential to each of the 16 critical infrastructure sectors identified by National Security Memorandum 22 of April 30, 2024 (Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience). For example, the communications sector requires semiconductors for broadband networks, routing, switching, telecommunications infrastructure, smartphones, and satellite communications systems. The energy sector requires them for smart grid control and converter systems. Nuclear reactors use semiconductors for sensors and safety systems, control-rod-actuation systems, distributed control systems, and power-management systems. The medical sector uses semiconductors in its imaging systems, diagnostic-assay systems, robotic surgical systems, and in pacemakers and defibrillators.
5. The Secretary found that the United States’ capacity to manufacture semiconductors is too low to meet projected national defense needs and to match the requirements of a growing commercial industry. The United States consumes roughly one quarter of the world’s semiconductors. The United States currently fully manufactures only approximately 10 percent of the chips it requires, making it heavily reliant on foreign supply chains. This dependence on foreign supply chains is a significant economic and national security risk. Given the foundational role that semiconductors play in the modern economy and national defense, a disruption of import-reliant supply chains could strain the United States’ industrial and military capabilities.
6. The Secretary found that semiconductors that enable artificial intelligence (AI) are an important element of many data centers currently in use, such that the importation in current quantities and circumstances poses a threat to the national security, when such importation does not contribute to the buildout of the United States technology supply chain.
7. In light of these findings, the Secretary recommended a two-phase plan of action to adjust imports of semiconductors so that such imports will not threaten to impair the national security of the United States. In the first phase, the United States would continue ongoing trade negotiations with foreign jurisdictions that have the potential to strengthen the United States semiconductor industry. The Secretary also recommended, as part of this first phase, immediately imposing a 25 percent ad valorem tariff on a very narrow category of semiconductors that are an important element of my Administration’s AI and technology policies, and that such tariff would not apply when the chips are imported to support the buildout of the United States technology supply chain. In the second phase — after trade negotiations have concluded — the Secretary recommended broader tariffs on semiconductors, at a rate of duty that is significant. The Secretary also recommended that this broader tariff be accompanied by a tariff offset program to enable companies investing in United States semiconductor production and certain parts of the United States semiconductor supply chain to obtain preferential tariff treatment.
8. After considering the Secretary’s report, the factors in section 232(d) (19 U.S.C. 1862(d)), and other relevant factors and information, among other things, I concur with the Secretary’s finding that semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products are being imported into the United States in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security of the United States. In my judgment, and in light of the Secretary’s report, the factors in section 232(d) (19 U.S.C. 1862(d)), and other relevant factors and information, I have also determined that it is necessary and appropriate to adopt a plan of action, as described below, to adjust such imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products so that such imports will not threaten to impair the national security of the United States.
9. I have decided to include in the plan of action negotiations to address the threatened impairment of the national security with respect to imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products. I therefore direct the Secretary and the United States Trade Representative (Trade Representative) to jointly pursue negotiation of agreements or continue any current negotiations of agreements, such as agreements contemplated in section 232(c)(3)(A)(i) (19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A)(i)), to address the threatened impairment of the national security with respect to imported semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products, with any foreign jurisdiction the Secretary and the Trade Representative deem appropriate, and to update me on the progress of such negotiations within 90 days of the date of this proclamation. Under current circumstances and in light of future requirements of the United States, this action is necessary and appropriate to address the threatened impairment of the national security.
10. I have also determined that it is necessary and appropriate to impose an immediate 25 percent ad valorem duty rate on the import of certain advanced computing chips and certain derivative products described in the Annex to this proclamation (Covered Products), when such importation does not contribute to the buildout of the United States technology supply chain and the strengthening of domestic manufacturing capacity for derivatives of semiconductors. I have further determined that it is necessary and appropriate that this duty rate not apply to imports of these Covered Products for use in United States data centers, for repairs or replacements performed in the United States, for research and development in the United States involving these chips, for startups in the United States, for non-data center consumer applications in the United States, for use in non-data center civil industrial applications in the United States, for use in United States public sector applications, or for other uses that the Secretary determines contribute to the strengthening of the United States technology supply chain or domestic manufacturing capacity for derivatives of semiconductors. In my judgment, the tariff regime imposed in clause (3) of this proclamation will address the threat to the national security found in this proclamation by, among other things, incentivizing the development of domestic manufacturing of certain semiconductors and their derivative products, reducing reliance on imports of certain advanced computing chips and certain derivative products, and promoting research and development in support of the United States’ high-tech infrastructure and capabilities.
11. In my judgment, based on current circumstances as well as the future needs of the United States, the actions in this proclamation are necessary and appropriate to address the threat to impair the national security posed by imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivatives. In particular, the actions in this proclamation will, among other things, help increase domestic production of semiconductors and reduce our Nation’s reliance on foreign sources and foreign supply chains. Along with other efforts by my Administration to promote the domestic semiconductor industry, the actions in this proclamation will ensure that domestic supply chains will be able to meet current and future domestic demand for semiconductors and their derivative products, which is essential for our defense systems and industry. These actions will also incentivize domestic industry to reduce reliance on imports of semiconductors, while leveraging imported semiconductors in circumstances that accelerate AI innovation in the United States and aid in building out the domestic technology supply chain.
12. Section 232 authorizes the President to take action to adjust the imports of an article and its derivatives that are being imported into the United States in such quantities or under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security. Section 232 includes the authority to adopt and carry out a plan of action, with adjustments over time, to address the national security threat. This plan of action may include negotiations of agreements with foreign trading partners along with other actions to adjust imports to address the national security threat, including tariffs. If action under section 232 includes the negotiation of an agreement, such as one contemplated in section 232(c)(3)(A)(i) (19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A)(i)), the President may also take other actions he deems necessary to adjust imports to eliminate the threat that the imported article poses to the national security, including if such an agreement is not entered into within 180 days of the date of this proclamation, is not being carried out, or is ineffective. See 19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A).
13. Section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483) (section 604), authorizes the President to embody in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) the substance of statutes affecting import treatment, and actions thereunder, including the removal, modification, continuance, or imposition of any rate of duty or other import restriction.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 232, 19 U.S.C. 1862; section 604, 19 U.S.C. 2483; and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, do hereby proclaim as follows:
(1) The Secretary and the Trade Representative, and any senior official they deem appropriate, shall jointly pursue or continue pursuing negotiations of agreements contemplated in section 232(c)(3)(A)(i) (19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A)(i)) to address the threatened impairment of the national security with respect to imported semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products. Depending on the status or resolution of such negotiations, I may consider imposing significant tariffs on imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products, as well as an accompanying tariff offset program to incentivize domestic manufacturing.
(2) Within 90 days of the date of this proclamation, the Secretary and the Trade Representative, in consultation with any senior official they deem appropriate, shall update me on the status or outcome of the negotiations directed under clause (1) of this proclamation.
(3) Except as otherwise provided in this proclamation, imports of Covered Products will be subject to a 25 percent ad valorem duty rate. This tariff shall be effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern standard time on January 15, 2026, and shall continue in effect, unless such action is expressly reduced, modified, or terminated. This tariff is in addition to any other duties, fees, exactions, and charges applicable to such imported semiconductors, unless stated otherwise below. The duty rate described in this clause shall not apply to imports of those Covered Products for use in United States data centers, for repairs or replacements performed in the United States, for research and development in the United States involving these chips, for use by startups, for non-data center consumer applications in the United States, for use in non-data center civil industrial applications in the United States, for use in United States public sector applications, or for other uses that the Secretary determines contribute to the strengthening of the United States technology supply chain or domestic manufacturing capacity for derivatives of semiconductors. In making his determination, the Secretary shall consider factors he deems relevant, including the need to address the national security threat found in this proclamation and the purpose of this proclamation.
(4) The Secretary, in consultation with the Chair of the International Trade Commission and the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), shall determine whether any modifications to the HTSUS, end-use certifications, or other administrative measures are necessary to effectuate or implement this proclamation or any actions taken pursuant to this proclamation. Any changes shall be published in a notice in the Federal Register.
(5) If any Covered Product is subject to tariffs under both this proclamation and other section 232 proclamations, the Covered Product shall be subject to the terms and duties imposed under this proclamation and not those imposed pursuant to any other section 232 proclamation. Covered Products subject to tariffs pursuant to clause (3) of this proclamation shall not be subject to any tariffs imposed by Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025 (Regulating Imports With a Reciprocal Tariff To Rectify Trade Practices That Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits), as amended; Executive Order 14193 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties To Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs Across Our Northern Border), as amended; and Executive Order 14194 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties To Address the Situation at Our Southern Border), as amended.
(6) No drawback shall be available with respect to the duties imposed pursuant to this proclamation.
(7) CBP may take any necessary or appropriate measure to administer the tariff imposed by this proclamation to the extent permitted by applicable law.
(8) Any product described in clause (3) of this proclamation, except those eligible for admission as “domestic status” as described in 19 CFR 146.43, that is subject to a duty imposed by this proclamation and that is admitted into a United States foreign trade zone on or after the effective date of this proclamation must be admitted as “privileged foreign status” as described in 19 CFR 146.41 and will be subject upon entry for consumption to any ad valorem rates of duty related to the classification under the applicable HTSUS subheading.
(9) The Secretary shall continue to monitor imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products. The Secretary also shall, from time to time, in consultation with any senior executive branch officials the Secretary deems appropriate, review the status of such imports with respect to the national security. The Secretary shall inform me of any circumstances that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate the need for further action by the President under section 232. By July 1, 2026, the Secretary shall provide me with an update on the market for semiconductors that are used in United States data centers, so that the President may determine whether it is appropriate to modify the tariff imposed in this proclamation. The Secretary shall also inform me of any circumstance that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate that the tariff imposed in this proclamation is no longer necessary.
(10) To the extent consistent with applicable law and the purpose of this proclamation, the Secretary, the Trade Representative, and the Secretary of Homeland Security are directed and authorized to take all actions that are appropriate to implement and effectuate this proclamation and any actions contemplated by this proclamation, including, consistent with applicable law, the issuance of regulations, rules, guidance, and procedures and the temporary suspension or amendment of regulations, within their respective jurisdictions, and to employ all powers granted to the President under section 232, as may be appropriate to implement and effectuate this proclamation. The Secretary, the Trade Representative, and the Secretary of Homeland Security may, consistent with applicable law, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code, redelegate any of these functions within their respective executive departments or agencies. All executive departments and agencies shall take all appropriate measures within their authority to implement this proclamation to the extent permitted by applicable law.
(11) Any provision of previous proclamations and Executive Orders that is inconsistent with the actions taken in this proclamation is superseded to the extent of such inconsistency. If any provision of this proclamation or the application of any provision to any individual or circumstance is held to be invalid, the remainder of this proclamation and the application of its provisions to any other individuals or circumstances shall not be affected.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
fourteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
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The introductory material establishes this document as a Presidential Proclamation issued by the President of the United States.
It includes boilerplate website navigation elements which provide context about the source being the official White House website section for Presidential Actions.
The proclamation begins by citing a report from the Secretary of Commerce, submitted on December 22, 2025, based on a Section 232 investigation.
This investigation concluded that imports of semiconductors, manufacturing equipment, and derivative products threaten U.S. national security due to their quantity and circumstances of entry.
2. The Secretary found that the present quantities and circumstances of imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products pose a threat to the national security and economy. The United States’ capacity to produce semiconductors, certain semiconductor manufacturing equipment such as advanced lithography and etching tools, and their derivative products is insufficient to meet domestic demand. This has led the United States to be dependent on foreign sources to meet domestic demand for semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products.
The Commerce Secretary determined that current import levels of semiconductors and related equipment threaten the economy and national security.
This threat stems from the United States having inadequate domestic production capacity, creating a dependency on foreign suppliers to meet national demand for these critical items, including specialized tools like advanced lithography equipment.
3. The Secretary found that semiconductors are essential to the United States’ economic, industrial, and military strength. Modern defense systems depend on high-performance semiconductors for radar and communication systems, electronic warfare and cybersecurity systems, and guidance and control systems for missiles and drones. Furthermore, defense systems often require specialized semiconductors that can withstand extreme environments. This reliance on semiconductors is expected only to increase.
Semiconductors are deemed fundamental to the nation's economic, industrial, and military power.
High-performance chips are necessary components for defense technologies such as radar, communications, electronic warfare, cybersecurity, and missile guidance systems.
Since specialized chips are often required for harsh operating conditions, and reliance on them is projected to grow, securing their supply is critical.
4. The Secretary found that semiconductors are essential to each of the 16 critical infrastructure sectors identified by National Security Memorandum 22 of April 30, 2024 (Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience). For example, the communications sector requires semiconductors for broadband networks, routing, switching, telecommunications infrastructure, smartphones, and satellite communications systems. The energy sector requires them for smart grid control and converter systems. Nuclear reactors use semiconductors for sensors and safety systems, control-rod-actuation systems, distributed control systems, and power-management systems. The medical sector uses semiconductors in its imaging systems, diagnostic-assay systems, robotic surgical systems, and in pacemakers and defibrillators.
The document states that semiconductors are critical inputs across all 16 sectors designated as critical infrastructure under a 2024 National Security Memorandum.
Examples provided show their necessity across communications (broadband, satellite), energy (smart grid), and medical fields (imaging, robotics, life support devices like pacemakers).
5. The Secretary found that the United States’ capacity to manufacture semiconductors is too low to meet projected national defense needs and to match the requirements of a growing commercial industry. The United States consumes roughly one quarter of the world’s semiconductors. The United States currently fully manufactures only approximately 10 percent of the chips it requires, making it heavily reliant on foreign supply chains. This dependence on foreign supply chains is a significant economic and national security risk. Given the foundational role that semiconductors play in the modern economy and national defense, a disruption of import-reliant supply chains could strain the United States’ industrial and military capabilities.
Domestic manufacturing capacity for semiconductors is insufficient for both defense projections and commercial needs.
The U.S. consumes about 25% of global supply but manufactures only about 10% domestically, leading to significant national security risk from reliance on foreign supply chains.
A disruption in these supply chains could severely impact U.S. military and industrial strength.
6. The Secretary found that semiconductors that enable artificial intelligence (AI) are an important element of many data centers currently in use, such that the importation in current quantities and circumstances poses a threat to the national security, when such importation does not contribute to the buildout of the United States technology supply chain.
Semiconductors essential for Artificial Intelligence (AI) used in data centers are specifically flagged as a national security threat when the volume of imports fails to concurrently support the expansion of the domestic U.S. technology supply chain.
7. In light of these findings, the Secretary recommended a two-phase plan of action to adjust imports of semiconductors so that such imports will not threaten to impair the national security of the United States. In the first phase, the United States would continue ongoing trade negotiations with foreign jurisdictions that have the potential to strengthen the United States semiconductor industry. The Secretary also recommended, as part of this first phase, immediately imposing a 25 percent ad valorem tariff on a very narrow category of semiconductors that are an important element of my Administration’s AI and technology policies, and that such tariff would not apply when the chips are imported to support the buildout of the United States technology supply chain. In the second phase — after trade negotiations have concluded — the Secretary recommended broader tariffs on semiconductors, at a rate of duty that is significant. The Secretary also recommended that this broader tariff be accompanied by a tariff offset program to enable companies investing in United States semiconductor production and certain parts of the United States semiconductor supply chain to obtain preferential tariff treatment.
The Secretary proposed a two-phase plan to remedy the national security risk posed by imports.
Phase one involves continuing trade negotiations aimed at strengthening the domestic industry, coupled with the immediate imposition of a 25 percent tariff on a narrow set of AI-related semiconductors, with an exclusion if the imports aid domestic supply chain expansion.
Phase two, following the conclusion of trade talks, recommends significant broader semiconductor tariffs accompanied by a program to offer preferential tariff treatment to companies investing in U.S. production.
8. After considering the Secretary’s report, the factors in section 232(d) (19 U.S.C. 1862(d)), and other relevant factors and information, among other things, I concur with the Secretary’s finding that semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products are being imported into the United States in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security of the United States. In my judgment, and in light of the Secretary’s report, the factors in section 232(d) (19 U.S.C. 1862(d)), and other relevant factors and information, I have also determined that it is necessary and appropriate to adopt a plan of action, as described below, to adjust such imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products so that such imports will not threaten to impair the national security of the United States.
The President concurs with the Secretary of Commerce's finding that semiconductor and related equipment imports endanger national security based on the Section 232 report and statutory factors (Section 232(d)).
Consequently, the President determines that adopting the proposed plan of action is necessary to adjust these imports and eliminate the threat to national security.
9. I have decided to include in the plan of action negotiations to address the threatened impairment of the national security with respect to imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products. I therefore direct the Secretary and the United States Trade Representative (Trade Representative) to jointly pursue negotiation of agreements or continue any current negotiations of agreements, such as agreements contemplated in section 232(c)(3)(A)(i) (19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A)(i)), to address the threatened impairment of the national security with respect to imported semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products, with any foreign jurisdiction the Secretary and the Trade Representative deem appropriate, and to update me on the progress of such negotiations within 90 days of the date of this proclamation. Under current circumstances and in light of future requirements of the United States, this action is necessary and appropriate to address the threatened impairment of the national security.
The President officially incorporates trade negotiations into the action plan.
The Secretary of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative are directed to jointly negotiate or continue existing agreements with relevant foreign jurisdictions within 90 days, reporting progress to the President.
This immediate diplomatic action is deemed necessary for current and future United States requirements to address the security impairment risk.
10. I have also determined that it is necessary and appropriate to impose an immediate 25 percent ad valorem duty rate on the import of certain advanced computing chips and certain derivative products described in the Annex to this proclamation (Covered Products), when such importation does not contribute to the buildout of the United States technology supply chain and the strengthening of domestic manufacturing capacity for derivatives of semiconductors. I have further determined that it is necessary and appropriate that this duty rate not apply to imports of these Covered Products for use in United States data centers, for repairs or replacements performed in the United States, for research and development in the United States involving these chips, for startups in the United States, for non-data center consumer applications in the United States, for use in non-data center civil industrial applications in the United States, for use in United States public sector applications, or for other uses that the Secretary determines contribute to the strengthening of the United States technology supply chain or domestic manufacturing capacity for derivatives of semiconductors. In my judgment, the tariff regime imposed in clause (3) of this proclamation will address the threat to the national security found in this proclamation by, among other things, incentivizing the development of domestic manufacturing of certain semiconductors and their derivative products, reducing reliance on imports of certain advanced computing chips and certain derivative products, and promoting research and development in support of the United States’ high-tech infrastructure and capabilities.
The President imposes an immediate 25 percent tariff on specific 'Covered Products'—certain advanced computing chips and derivatives listed in the Annex.
Crucially, this duty is waived if the imports support the expansion of the U.S. technology supply chain or domestic manufacturing.
Extensive exemptions are detailed, covering uses like data centers, R&D, startups, consumer applications, civil industrial uses, and public sector applications, all intended to incentivize domestic U.S. capabilities.
11. In my judgment, based on current circumstances as well as the future needs of the United States, the actions in this proclamation are necessary and appropriate to address the threat to impair the national security posed by imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivatives. In particular, the actions in this proclamation will, among other things, help increase domestic production of semiconductors and reduce our Nation’s reliance on foreign sources and foreign supply chains. Along with other efforts by my Administration to promote the domestic semiconductor industry, the actions in this proclamation will ensure that domestic supply chains will be able to meet current and future domestic demand for semiconductors and their derivative products, which is essential for our defense systems and industry. These actions will also incentivize domestic industry to reduce reliance on imports of semiconductors, while leveraging imported semiconductors in circumstances that accelerate AI innovation in the United States and aid in building out the domestic technology supply chain.
The measures taken are deemed necessary to safeguard national security by boosting domestic semiconductor production and decreasing reliance on global supply chains.
These actions are intended to work alongside other administration efforts to guarantee sufficient domestic supply for defense and industry needs.
Furthermore, the policy aims to incentivize industry to decrease import dependency while strategically allowing essential imports that foster domestic AI innovation and supply chain growth.
12. Section 232 authorizes the President to take action to adjust the imports of an article and its derivatives that are being imported into the United States in such quantities or under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security. Section 232 includes the authority to adopt and carry out a plan of action, with adjustments over time, to address the national security threat. This plan of action may include negotiations of agreements with foreign trading partners along with other actions to adjust imports to address the national security threat, including tariffs. If action under section 232 includes the negotiation of an agreement, such as one contemplated in section 232(c)(3)(A)(i) (19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A)(i)), the President may also take other actions he deems necessary to adjust imports to eliminate the threat that the imported article poses to the national security, including if such an agreement is not entered into within 180 days of the date of this proclamation, is not being carried out, or is ineffective. See 19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A).
This paragraph confirms the President’s legal basis for action under Section 232, which permits adjustments to imports threatening national security.
This authority allows for a flexible plan, including negotiations and tariffs.
It also grants the President residual authority to take further actions, like imposing tariffs if negotiated agreements under Section 232(c)(3)(A)(i) are not finalized, implemented, or prove insufficient within 180 days.
13. Section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483) (section 604), authorizes the President to embody in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) the substance of statutes affecting import treatment, and actions thereunder, including the removal, modification, continuance, or imposition of any rate of duty or other import restriction.
The Proclamation cites Section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974 as additional statutory authority.
This section empowers the President to formally incorporate the substance of trade actions, such as imposing, adjusting, or removing duty rates and import restrictions, into the official Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS).
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 232, 19 U.S.C. 1862; section 604, 19 U.S.C. 2483; and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, do hereby proclaim as follows:
This is the formal concluding preamble, asserting the President's executive authority derived from the Constitution and specific statutes, namely Section 232 (trade expansion), Section 604 (HTSUS modification), and Section 301 of Title 3 (general Presidential authority), to enact the ensuing rules.
(1) The Secretary and the Trade Representative, and any senior official they deem appropriate, shall jointly pursue or continue pursuing negotiations of agreements contemplated in section 232(c)(3)(A)(i) (19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A)(i)) to address the threatened impairment of the national security with respect to imported semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products. Depending on the status or resolution of such negotiations, I may consider imposing significant tariffs on imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products, as well as an accompanying tariff offset program to incentivize domestic manufacturing.
The first directive mandates the Secretary of Commerce and the Trade Representative to immediately pursue or continue negotiations regarding semiconductor imports under Section 232(c)(3)(A)(i).
The President reserves the right to implement significant tariffs and a tariff offset program later, dependent upon the outcome of these trade discussions to spur domestic manufacturing.
(2) Within 90 days of the date of this proclamation, the Secretary and the Trade Representative, in consultation with any senior official they deem appropriate, shall update me on the status or outcome of the negotiations directed under clause (1) of this proclamation.
A specific deadline is set, requiring the Secretary of Commerce and the Trade Representative to provide an update on the status of the mandated trade negotiations within 90 days after the proclamation's issuance.
(3) Except as otherwise provided in this proclamation, imports of Covered Products will be subject to a 25 percent ad valorem duty rate. This tariff shall be effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern standard time on January 15, 2026, and shall continue in effect, unless such action is expressly reduced, modified, or terminated. This tariff is in addition to any other duties, fees, exactions, and charges applicable to such imported semiconductors, unless stated otherwise below. The duty rate described in this clause shall not apply to imports of those Covered Products for use in United States data centers, for repairs or replacements performed in the United States, for research and development in the United States involving these chips, for use by startups, for non-data center consumer applications in the United States, for use in non-data center civil industrial applications in the United States, for use in United States public sector applications, or for other uses that the Secretary determines contribute to the strengthening of the United States technology supply chain or domestic manufacturing capacity for derivatives of semiconductors. In making his determination, the Secretary shall consider factors he deems relevant, including the need to address the national security threat found in this proclamation and the purpose of this proclamation.
This clause enacts the immediate 25 percent tariff on 'Covered Products,' effective January 15, 2026, in addition to any existing duties.
However, it lists extensive exceptions where the tariff does not apply, such as for U.S. data centers, R&D, startups, and essential industrial or consumer uses that support the domestic supply chain.
The Secretary will interpret these exemptions based on the goal of mitigating the national security threat.
(4) The Secretary, in consultation with the Chair of the International Trade Commission and the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), shall determine whether any modifications to the HTSUS, end-use certifications, or other administrative measures are necessary to effectuate or implement this proclamation or any actions taken pursuant to this proclamation. Any changes shall be published in a notice in the Federal Register.
The Secretary of Commerce must collaborate with the International Trade Commission Chair and the Commissioner of CBP to identify and implement any necessary administrative changes, such as modifications to the HTSUS or requirements for end-use certifications.
Any resulting adjustments must be officially published in the Federal Register.
(5) If any Covered Product is subject to tariffs under both this proclamation and other section 232 proclamations, the Covered Product shall be subject to the terms and duties imposed under this proclamation and not those imposed pursuant to any other section 232 proclamation. Covered Products subject to tariffs pursuant to clause (3) of this proclamation shall not be subject to any tariffs imposed by Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025 (Regulating Imports With a Reciprocal Tariff To Rectify Trade Practices That Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits), as amended; Executive Order 14193 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties To Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs Across Our Northern Border), as amended; and Executive Order 14194 of February 1, 2025 (Imposing Duties To Address the Situation at Our Southern Border), as amended.
This clause establishes jurisdiction in cases where imported products fall under multiple trade actions.
If a 'Covered Product' is already subject to other Section 232 tariffs, this proclamation's terms prevail.
Furthermore, it explicitly states that tariffs imposed by this proclamation override those established by three specific prior Executive Orders regarding reciprocal tariffs, northern border drug flows, and the southern border situation.
(6) No drawback shall be available with respect to the duties imposed pursuant to this proclamation.
The proclamation prohibits the use of drawback provisions for duties paid under this order.
Drawback allows importers to recover duties paid on imported goods if those goods are subsequently exported or destroyed.
(7) CBP may take any necessary or appropriate measure to administer the tariff imposed by this proclamation to the extent permitted by applicable law.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is authorized to implement any necessary administrative procedures to enforce the imposed tariff, provided such actions remain within legal boundaries.
(8) Any product described in clause (3) of this proclamation, except those eligible for admission as “domestic status” as described in 19 CFR 146.43, that is subject to a duty imposed by this proclamation and that is admitted into a United States foreign trade zone on or after the effective date of this proclamation must be admitted as “privileged foreign status” as described in 19 CFR 146.41 and will be subject upon entry for consumption to any ad valorem rates of duty related to the classification under the applicable HTSUS subheading.
This addresses products entering Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) after the effective date.
Goods subject to this new tariff, unless they qualify for 'domestic status' under specific regulations, must be admitted into the FTZ under 'privileged foreign status.' They will then be subject to this new ad valorem duty rate upon official entry into the U.S. commerce stream.
(9) The Secretary shall continue to monitor imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products. The Secretary also shall, from time to time, in consultation with any senior executive branch officials the Secretary deems appropriate, review the status of such imports with respect to the national security. The Secretary shall inform me of any circumstances that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate the need for further action by the President under section 232. By July 1, 2026, the Secretary shall provide me with an update on the market for semiconductors that are used in United States data centers, so that the President may determine whether it is appropriate to modify the tariff imposed in this proclamation. The Secretary shall also inform me of any circumstance that, in the Secretary’s opinion, might indicate that the tariff imposed in this proclamation is no longer necessary.
The Secretary is required to continuously monitor semiconductor imports concerning national security, consulting with other senior officials as needed.
The Secretary must inform the President if further Section 232 action seems warranted or, conversely, if the imposed tariff is no longer necessary.
A specific update on the U.S. data center semiconductor market is due by July 1, 2026, to allow the President to decide whether to adjust the existing tariff.
(10) To the extent consistent with applicable law and the purpose of this proclamation, the Secretary, the Trade Representative, and the Secretary of Homeland Security are directed and authorized to take all actions that are appropriate to implement and effectuate this proclamation and any actions contemplated by this proclamation, including, consistent with applicable law, the issuance of regulations, rules, guidance, and procedures and the temporary suspension or amendment of regulations, within their respective jurisdictions, and to employ all powers granted to the President under section 232, as may be appropriate to implement and effectuate this proclamation. The Secretary, the Trade Representative, and the Secretary of Homeland Security may, consistent with applicable law, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code, redelegate any of these functions within their respective executive departments or agencies. All executive departments and agencies shall take all appropriate measures within their authority to implement this proclamation to the extent permitted by applicable law.
The Secretaries of Commerce, Homeland Security, and the Trade Representative are directed to take all necessary regulatory and procedural actions to implement the Proclamation, using appropriate authority granted under Section 232.
They are also authorized to delegate these implementation functions within their respective departments, and all executive agencies must cooperate in implementing the order to the extent legally permissible.
(11) Any provision of previous proclamations and Executive Orders that is inconsistent with the actions taken in this proclamation is superseded to the extent of such inconsistency. If any provision of this proclamation or the application of any provision to any individual or circumstance is held to be invalid, the remainder of this proclamation and the application of its provisions to any other individuals or circumstances shall not be affected.
This paragraph addresses conflicts with prior presidential directives, stating that any inconsistent provision in existing proclamations or Executive Orders is overridden by this new action.
It also includes a standard severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the proclamation is found invalid by a court, the remaining provisions will remain in full force.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
fourteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
The post ADJUSTING IMPORTS OF SEMICONDUCTORS, SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT, AND THEIR DERIVATIVE PRODUCTS INTO THE UNITED STATES appeared first on The White House.
This final section formally concludes the proclamation, stating it was signed by President Donald J. Trump on January 14, 2026, marking the 250th year of American Independence.
It also provides links to the required Annex and the source page on The White House website.