Trump imposes 15% tariff on key chip material to counter China

The move aims to counter Chinese producers, which hold a monopoly in the global polysilicon production.

Trump tariffsChinese companies hold 96% of global production of key material for chips, solar panelsThe solar industry is the main consumer of polysilicon, while semiconductor chips accounted for 2.4% of annual consumption in 2025, according to the Semiconductor Industry Association. © ReutersPAK YIUAugust 7, 2026 07:0

Trump administration officials are considering a months-long delay in collecting planned tariffs on solar panels and other items containing polysilicon — a phase-in period that could encourage a rush of imports by renewable-energy companies working on US projects.

The White House is expected to announce the measures as soon as Thursday, targeting polysilicon and its derivatives including wafers, cells, and solar modules

The Trump administration will announce as soon as Thursday a 15% tariff and a series of price floors on products made from polysilicon, the key raw material used in solar panels and semiconductors, according to four sources familiar with the matter.

Trump administration to impose 15% tariff in polysilicon probe meant to counter China  Reuters

The Trump administration will announce as soon as Thursday a 15 per cent tariff and price floors on products made from polysilicon, the key raw material used in solar panels and semiconductors, according to sources.

The decision, expected to come later this month, aims to protect U.S. polysilicon factories from growing Chinese ambitions in the chip supply chain.