More new tariffs?

The New York Times reports on a newly announced section 232 investigation targeting semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. The FT says that Trump will investigate the critical mineral supply chain – and tariffs may follow. CNBC covers the outcome of the US investigation of Chinese shipbuilding and new fees on Chinese ships. Henry Storey, for the Hinrich Foundation, spells out the critical flaw in Trump’s critical minerals strategy.

Mentioned publications

Trump Moves to Put New Tariffs on Computer Chips and Drugs – Ana Swanson and Tony Romm, The New York Times, April 14, 2025
Trump has launched national security investigations that could lead to new tariffs on imported semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and related equipment to encourage domestic production. Citing the need to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, particularly from Asia, the Trump administration is pursuing Section 232 tariffs as part of a broader reshoring strategy. Critics warn the move could raise costs and face industry pushback without complementary incentives and international coordination.
HF sponsored access Donald Trump threatens to hit critical minerals with tariffs – Aime Williams and Demetri Sevastopulo, Financial Times, April 16, 2025
Donald Trump has launched a national security investigation also into critical minerals imports, signaling potential new tariffs aimed at reducing US reliance on foreign suppliers, especially Chinese. The resulting tariffs may replace existing "reciprocal" rates and could be lowered or raised depending on the investigation’s findings. The move escalates trade tensions following China’s suspension of rare earth exports and highlights growing competition over materials essential for defense, energy, and technology sectors.
Trump administration announces fees on Chinese ships docking at U.S. ports – Lori Ann LaRocco, CNBC, April 18, 2025
The Trump administration announced port fees on Chinese-built vessels starting October 2025, aiming to reduce US reliance on Chinese shipbuilding and boost domestic production. The proposed levies, up to US$1.5 million per vessel, are a part of a broader effort to revive US ship manufacturing back, a policy which has bipartisan support. China has criticized the move and warned of potential retaliation.
Can Trump break China’s critical minerals stranglehold? – Henry Storey, Hinrich Foundations, April 15, 2025
Donald Trump has issued a flurry of executive orders recently aiming to regain control of critical minerals. Yet, domestically, the US is struggling to reduce the byzantine US permitting process for mining. Internationally, Trump is trying to negotiate minerals deals with war-torn Ukraine and corrupt gangs in Congo and threatening to annex neighboring countries. To truly break China’s grip on the sector, Washington must work with allies.