The Trump administration is reportedly considering tariff waivers for major tech firms if TSMC invests heavily in US semiconductor production.
WASHINGTON: The administration of US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering exempting major technology companies from upcoming tariffs on microchips.
According to a Financial Times report cited by Sputnik, firms like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft could receive waivers tied to the construction of artificial intelligence data centres.
This potential exemption is contingent on significant US production investments by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).
The US Commerce Department plans to link tariff relief for American companies directly to TSMC’s investment commitments, the report states.
All plans remain in the development stage and have not yet been signed by the president.
Sources emphasised that the proposals are still being formulated.
Trump previously imposed a 25% tariff on imports of several advanced microchips.
He indicated these tariffs could soon be extended to a broader range of semiconductors and their derivatives.
The development follows a recent US Department of Commerce announcement regarding Taiwanese investment.
Taiwanese companies have pledged to invest at least USD 250 billion in developing semiconductor, energy, and AI manufacturing within the United States.
The US and Taiwan also plan to create world-class industrial clusters.
This initiative aims to establish the US as a global hub for advanced technology, manufacturing, and innovation.
