Tariff Update: PCs and Laptops Spared from Chinese Tariffs

In a surprising twist, echoing much of the unpredictability of the past couple of weeks, the Trump administration has decided to exempt computers, smartphones, and other electronics from a staggering 145% tariff on Chinese imports. This decision brings a huge sigh of relief to major tech companies like Razer, HP, Dell, Microsoft, ASUS, and Acer.

Bloomberg and other outlets reported that this exemption was quietly rolled out by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection late last Friday.

As a result, not only will laptops, PCs, gaming consoles, and smartphones dodge this monumental 145% hit—an increase that would make importing almost impractical—but they’re also spared from the more temporary yet still burdensome 10% tariff that’s currently affecting other countries.

For consumers, this means prices on electronics should remain relatively stable since semiconductors, which are crucial components, are mostly being left alone. However, there may still be minor price fluctuations since assembling laptops involves globally sourced parts that could carry extra costs before these products reach the U.S.

(Image credit: Getty Images | Mandel Ngan)

There’s still a cloud of uncertainty hanging over the tech industry with these ongoing tariff disputes, causing PC manufacturers to strategically manage production and shipment schedules, fearing potential setbacks if tensions rise again between the U.S. and China.

In addition to major electronics, items like hard drives, computer processors, and memory chips have also been granted a reprieve.

Earlier, Razer appeared to freeze its U.S. laptop sales directly on its site, while Acer had already mentioned price increases. This shift has also nudged prices up for gaming handhelds, with models like the Lenovo Legion Go S and MSI Claw climbing by $50 and $100, respectively.

If the 145% tariffs had been enacted on consumer electronics, shelves at major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon likely would have stayed empty, with items over doubling in price, leading to widespread shortages.

However, as noted by Bloomberg, this tariff relief might be temporary. The pause in tariff hikes could mean these products might instead face a different, likely less severe, tariff soon.

In essence, the tech industry can breathe a sigh of relief—at least for today. Stay updated on the latest in this ongoing tariff saga and its implications for PCs, laptops, and gaming gear by following our dedicated tariff live blog.