Trump issues ultimatum to the chip industry: If you don't set up factories in the U.S., tariffs will be increased

According to Zhitong Finance APP, on the eve of a dinner with the CEOs of major technology companies, U.S. President Trump stated on Thursday that his administration would impose tariffs on semiconductor products exported by companies that do not relocate production to the United States. Since returning to the White House in January, Trump's tariff threats have strained trade relations, triggered volatility in financial markets, and increased uncertainty in the global economy. "Yes, I have discussed this with those present. Regarding the chip and semiconductor sector—we will impose tariffs on companies that are unwilling to set up factories in the U.S., and related measures will be implemented soon," Trump said, without disclosing specific implementation dates or tariff rates. He also told reporters, "We will impose a considerable tariff, although it won't be excessively high, but it will be substantial. However, if these companies choose to build factories in the U.S., are advancing their factory plans, or have intentions to set up factories in the U.S., they will be exempt from this tariff." Currently, Trump has made tariff policy a core pillar of U.S. foreign policy, using this means to exert political pressure on countries and companies exporting goods to the U.S., pushing for renegotiation of trade agreements, and forcing concessions from the other side. When discussing the tariff policy in the semiconductor sector, Trump clearly stated, "If you don't set up factories in the U.S., you will be taxed." When asked about Apple (AAPL.US) CEO Tim Cook, Trump pointed to Cook across the table and said, "For example, I think Tim Cook's situation will be quite good." As leaders in the tech industry gradually align with Trump during his second term, Apple recently announced that it would increase its total investment commitment in the U.S. to $600 billion over the next four years. Last month, Trump stated that the U.S. would impose tariffs of about 100% on imported semiconductor products, but this policy would not apply to companies that are already producing in the U.S. or have committed to building factories in the U.S. Taiwan's chip giant TSMC (TSM.US), as well as South Korea's Samsung Electronics (SSNLF.US) and SK Hynix, have all announced plans to invest in building chip manufacturing plants in the U.S. However, Trump is facing legal challenges regarding the use of tariffs. Previously, a lower court ruled that most tariffs imposed by the Trump administration under a 1977 emergency statute were invalid—these tariffs are central to his economic and trade agenda. The U.S. government has now requested the Supreme Court to expedite the handling of related cases to uphold its broad tariff policy