December 23, 2024

The White House announced a trade investigation into “legacy” semiconductors made by China on Monday, less than a month before the new administration of president-elect Donald Trump takes power, that could impose additional tariffs on Chinese-made everyday US consumer goods from cars to coffee makers.

The inquiry falls under Section 301, a tool named after a part of the US Trade Act of 1974 that allows Washington to challenge imports on national security grounds. Given the last-minute timing, it will be up to the Trump administration whether to pursue the probe after taking over on January 20.

The investigation by the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) could give Trump a platform to further his threat – made during his election campaign – to impose up to 60 per cent tariffs on all Chinese imported goods.

Read more: