Over the past several weeks, the U.S. has continued to implement the trade restrictions it previously announced.
On July 24, the U.S. enacted its forced labor allegations-related tariffs affecting over 60 countries. Additionally, the U.S. enacted a 25% tariff on most Brazilian imports on July 22. The U.S. is also threatening to enact a 50% tariff on many Canadian imports from August 19. However, negotiations remain ongoing.
Meanwhile, recent government filings from the end of July found that the U.S. has paid around $1 billion (€866 million) in refunds to importers for tariffs previously paid on the overturned U.S. reciprocal tariffs, accounting for over half of all refunds owed. The refund process will likely continue over the next several months.
U.S. announces 15% tariffs on polysilicon imports
On August 6, President Trump announced a new 15% tariff on imports of polysilicon and several derivative products. This tariff will be effective from December 4.
Additionally, the measure also set a minimum import price for polysilicon at $21 (€18.25) per kilogram, as well as minimum prices of $100 (€86.90) per kilogram for polysilicon ingots and wafers, $0.22 (€0.19) per watt for solar cells, and $0.38 (€0.33) per watt for finished solar modules.
The measure aims to support U.S. manufacturers of polysilicon and its downstream components. Manufacturers have previously complained about Chinese competitors flooding the U.S. market with low-cost goods.
The policy further authorizes the U.S. Department of Commerce to establish an incentive program for companies that build or expand factories in the U.S. that produce polysilicon. The U.S. primarily imports polysilicon from China. China provides around 90% of the global supply, and the new policy will likely target Chinese imports. Polysilicon is a key component in solar panels and semiconductors.
U.S. considers trade restrictions on new Chinese optical transceivers used in data centers
Recent reports indicate that the U.S. may also consider further trade restrictions affecting China. This is despite ongoing tariff negotiations and a potential diplomatic visit by Chinese officials in September.
Additionally, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission is reportedly considering a ban on the import of new optical transceivers from China. These technologies are used in the construction of data centers. The ban is due to security-related concerns regarding the involvement of Chinese technology companies in U.S. communications infrastructure.
This policy would likely ban all imports of optical transceivers regardless of origin but exempt many non-Chinese suppliers. If U.S. officials approve the policy, it could take effect as soon as this year.
U.S. threatens tariffs on generic pharmaceutical imports from August 2028
On July 22, the Trump administration announced a new plan to enact tariffs on imports of generic pharmaceuticals. A tariff of 100% would be charged beginning in August 2028. This tariff would increase to 200% one year later.
The measure is intended to encourage manufacturers to reshore production to the U.S. Many further details about this policy have not yet been specified, including the legal justification, whether generic pharmaceutical ingredients would be affected, and whether exceptions might be granted to companies that reach individual deals with the Trump administration.
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