Trump Denies Tariff Exemptions? POTUS says no ‘exceptions’ announced

President Donald Trump on Sunday dismissed reports suggesting tariff exemptions were granted to smartphones, computers, and other electronics, stating that no country is “off the hook” for unfair trade practices. His clarification came after US Customs and Border Protection issued guidance indicating exemptions for select electronics under retaliatory tariffs.

White House Officials Maintain Tariff Status

Senior White House adviser Stephen Miller supported Trump’s stance, posting on X that the exempted electronics are still “subject to the tariff under the original [declaration] on China of 20 percent.” He linked these tariffs to the President’s broader effort to curb the “illicit drug crisis” and target China, Canada, and Mexico.

Trump Takes to Truth Social to Clarify Policy

Taking to Truth Social, Trump reiterated his administration’s strict trade policy.

“NOBODY is getting ‘off the hook’ for the unfair Trade Balances, and Non Monetary Tariff Barriers, that other Countries have used against us, especially not China which, by far, treats us the worst!” he wrote.

He further added, “There was no tariff exception announced on Friday.”Trump clarified that the products in question “are subject to the existing 20% Fentanyl Tariffs, and they are just moving to a different Tariff bucket.”

Electronics Supply Chain Under Investigation

Trump signaled a broader investigation into the electronics sector and semiconductors. “We are taking a look at Semiconductors and the WHOLE ELECTRONICS SUPPLY CHAIN in the upcoming National Security Tariff Investigations,” he stated.

He emphasized the need to manufacture within the U.S. to reduce reliance on foreign, especially Chinese, imports.

Renewed Call for Trade Equality

“We also cannot let them continue to abuse us on Trade, like they have for decades, THOSE DAYS ARE OVER!” Trump declared. He tied this trade push to his broader economic agenda, noting that upcoming tax and regulation cuts, recently passed by Congress, will lead to more domestic jobs and production.

“The bottom line is that our Country will be bigger, better, and stronger than ever before. We will, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!” Trump’s comments underscore a firm stance on trade policy, especially targeting China, and suggest a rollback of any previously perceived relief on tech-related imports.