BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
1. On December 22, 2025, the Secretary of Commerce submitted a report detailing an investigation into the implications of semiconductor imports—those essential chips and the machinery that produces them—on the national security of the United States, pursuant to section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862). The findings indicated that the influx of these products is so substantial and problematic that it poses a direct threat to our national security, intertwining economic welfare with our safety.
2. The Secretary warned that the current volume of semiconductor imports is dangerously high, undermining both our national security and economic stability. The United States lacks the capacity to produce enough semiconductors and the requisite manufacturing equipment to satisfy domestic demand, thus rendering us reliant on foreign sources—an arrangement that is as precarious as it is unsustainable.
3. The report emphasized that semiconductors are vital to our economic, industrial, and military prowess. Modern defense systems hinge on high-performance chips for radar, communications, electronic warfare, and various control systems for advanced weaponry. This dependence is only expected to deepen as technology evolves.
4. Moreover, semiconductors are critical across all 16 sectors of infrastructure identified in National Security Memorandum 22, issued on April 30, 2024. For instance, the communications sector depends on them for broadband networks and smartphones, while the energy sector utilizes them for smart grid systems. Even nuclear reactors rely on semiconductors for safety and operational controls, showing just how embedded they are in the fabric of our society.
5. The Secretary pointed out that our semiconductor manufacturing capabilities are woefully inadequate to meet both our defense needs and the demands of a burgeoning commercial sector. Despite consuming about 25% of the world’s semiconductors, the U.S. only produces approximately 10% of what it consumes, leaving our economy precariously linked to foreign supply chains—a risk that could destabilize our industrial and military capabilities.
6. The Secretary highlighted that semiconductors enabling artificial intelligence (AI) are integral to many current data centers, suggesting that the current import levels represent a security threat unless they contribute to the development of a robust domestic technology supply chain.
7. In response to these alarming findings, a two-phase strategy was proposed to recalibrate semiconductor imports. The first phase would involve ongoing trade negotiations with foreign nations to bolster U.S. semiconductor capabilities. Additionally, a 25% ad valorem tariff would be imposed on a select category of semiconductors crucial to the administration’s AI and technology initiatives, with exemptions for imports that support domestic supply chain development. The second phase, contingent on the outcomes of these negotiations, would introduce broader tariffs on semiconductors, coupled with incentives for companies investing in U.S. semiconductor production.
8. After reviewing the Secretary’s findings and pertinent factors, I concur that the ongoing importation of semiconductors and related products jeopardizes national security. Thus, I have determined that a strategic plan is imperative to mitigate these risks associated with semiconductor imports.
9. Consequently, I direct the Secretary and the United States Trade Representative to engage in negotiations with relevant foreign entities to address these security concerns. An update on negotiation progress will be expected within 90 days of this proclamation, as it is vital to tackle the national security risks posed by semiconductor imports.
10. I also intend to enforce an immediate 25% ad valorem duty on specific advanced computing chips, as outlined in the Annex, unless their importation contributes to strengthening the U.S. technology supply chain. This duty will not apply to imports intended for data centers, repairs, research initiatives, or applications that bolster domestic manufacturing capacity.
11. Given the current landscape and projected needs, these actions are essential for boosting domestic semiconductor production while reducing dependence on foreign sources. This proclamation aims to ensure that U.S. supply chains can adequately meet both present and future demands for semiconductors, which are indispensable for national defense and economic stability. By doing so, we can foster domestic capabilities while cautiously leveraging imports that catalyze innovation.
12. Section 232 empowers the President to adjust imports that threaten national security. This includes negotiating agreements with trading partners and implementing appropriate tariffs as deemed necessary.
13. Under Section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, I am authorized to revise import treatment statutes, including duty rates.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim as follows:
(1) The Secretary and the Trade Representative shall pursue negotiations to address the national security threats posed by semiconductor imports. Depending on the outcomes, I may consider imposing substantial tariffs alongside a tariff offset program to encourage domestic manufacturing.
(2) Within 90 days of this proclamation, the Secretary and the Trade Representative shall provide an update on the negotiation status.
(3) All imports of Covered Products will incur a 25% ad valorem duty from January 15, 2026, unless exempted for specific uses that support the U.S. technology supply chain.
(4) The Secretary will consult with trade and customs officials to determine any necessary modifications to implement this proclamation effectively.
(5) If any Covered Product faces tariffs under both this proclamation and previous ones, the terms of this proclamation will prevail.
(6) No drawback will be available concerning the duties imposed.
(7) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) shall take necessary measures to enforce this proclamation.
(8) Covered Products admitted into a U.S. foreign trade zone after this proclamation must be classified under “privileged foreign status.”
(9) The Secretary will monitor semiconductor imports and report on any developments that may necessitate further action. An update on the semiconductor market for data centers will be due by July 1, 2026.
(10) The Secretary, Trade Representative, and Secretary of Homeland Security are authorized to implement this proclamation’s provisions, including issuing regulations and guidance as necessary.
(11) Any conflicting provisions of previous proclamations are superseded. Should any part of this proclamation be deemed invalid, the remainder will remain effective.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
fourteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
Annex
