President Donald J. Trump has signed a Proclamation invoking Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to address concerns about imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and related products. The action is intended to support the domestic semiconductor industry and protect both economic and national security.
According to the White House, restoring capacity for domestic production in these sectors is seen as essential for safeguarding key aspects of the U.S. economy and security infrastructure. President Trump stated that this measure builds on previous efforts by his administration aimed at prioritizing American interests in trade and industrial policy.
"This Proclamation builds upon previous actions taken by the Trump Administration to ensure U.S. trade and industrial policies put America first," according to a statement from the White House.
The invocation of Section 232 gives the president authority to adjust imports that are deemed threats to national security, which has been used in past administrations for other critical industries.
