U.S. Announces National Security Investigation into Imported Semiconductors | WPN World People News

The *Federal Register* on April 14 reported that the U.S. Department of Commerce has announced a national security investigation into imported semiconductors. The scope of the investigation includes silicon wafers, semiconductor components, chip manufacturing equipment, and downstream products containing semiconductors.

According to foreign media reports, the purpose of the investigation is to assess the feasibility of boosting domestic semiconductor production, reduce reliance on imports, and explore whether additional tariffs or other trade measures are needed to safeguard national security.

Although U.S. President Donald Trump stated on April 11 that certain electronic products such as smartphones, computers, and semiconductors could be exempt from reciprocal tariffs, chips and the broader electronics supply chain were not excluded. The Trump administration is planning to impose new tariffs on imported semiconductor products. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated on the political talk show *This Week* on April 13 that these measures could be officially implemented within the next one to two months. The measures are based on Section 232 of the 1962 *Trade Expansion Act*, which allows the President to impose tariffs on the grounds of national security.

In addition, the Trump administration has launched a similar national security investigation into pharmaceuticals and drug ingredients, underscoring its strong emphasis on supply chain security.