President Donald Trump has signed an order imposing tariffs and minimum import prices on imported polysilicon, a key component used in semiconductors and solar panels. The order establishes a series of price floors and a 15% tariff on products made from the material.
The move aims to boost domestic production of polysilicon as well as the US semiconductors and solar panels manufactured from it. By reducing reliance on foreign supplies, the administration seeks to protect U.S. polysilicon factories from growing Chinese ambitions in the chip supply chain and mitigate threats to national security.
The decision is expected to come later this month. However, administration officials are considering a months-long delay in collecting the planned tariffs on solar panels and other items containing polysilicon. This phase-in period could encourage a rush of imports by renewable-energy companies working on US projects.