Washington: US President Donald Trump denied reports that his administration had granted a tariff exception for electronics like smartphones and chips, contrary to suggestions late last week that consumer tech products would be spared from sweeping reciprocal tariffs. '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!' Trump said Sunday on his Truth Social account.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump clarified that these products remain subject to the existing 20% fentanyl tariffs, simply moving to a different tariff category. Trump criticized the media for not accurately reporting the situation and emphasized the administration's focus on semiconductors and the entire electronics supply chain in the upcoming National Security Tariff Investigations. He stressed the importance of manufacturing products domestically to avoid dependency on other nations, particularly those perceived as hostile, like China.

Trump also highlighted the 'Golden Age of America,' which he claims will be ushered in by upcoming tax and regulation cuts. He stated that these measures, recently approved by Congress, will lead to more and better-paying jobs by encouraging domestic production and ensuring fair treatment with countries like China.

On Friday, US Customs and Border Protection had published a notice that appeared to exempt electronic products from the 145% tariffs on Chinese goods, sparking speculation that these items might be spared. However, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick clarified on Sunday that electronics are not permanently exempt. Instead, they will be subject to new semiconductor-specific tariffs expected in the coming months as part of a broader trade strategy.