U.S. Temporarily Waives “Reciprocal Tariffs” on Certain Electronics

📌 Latest Update
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has announced:
✅ Certain electronic products (including smartphones, computers, and chips) entering the U.S. after April 5 will be exempt from “reciprocal tariffs”.
💰 Duties already paid can be refunded!

📈 Policy Implications: A Signal of Easing for Chinese Exports
🔹 About 73% of smartphones in the U.S. market are made in China
🔹 Around 78% of laptops rely on Chinese manufacturing
🔹 Exempted items account for 20%-25% of China’s total exports to the U.S.
📦 This waiver has significant implications for exporters, cross-border e-commerce, and OEM manufacturers.

🧭 China–U.S. Standpoints Compared

China's Response:

“We are assessing the impact and urge the U.S. to completely eliminate this erroneous measure and return to equal dialogue.”

U.S. Statement:

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated:
🔸 The waiver is temporary
🔸 Relevant products will be included in the upcoming semiconductor tariff list (expected in 1–2 months)
🔸 “Negotiations will not bring exemptions”

📊 Business Recommendations:
✔️ Assess current and future tariff risks on electronics
✔️ Review import timing and tax declarations promptly
✔️ Forecast potential impacts of future semiconductor tariffs
✔️ Optimize your supply chain layout to mitigate tariff volatility