Unpredictable Trump... Suggests Tariff Exemption on 'Car Parts' Following Phone and PC Cases

In Response to Tariff Exemption Questions,
"We Are Seeking Ways to Support Automobile Companies"

U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of tariff exemptions on auto parts on the 14th (local time). Following the exclusion of certain electronic products such as smartphones and PCs from reciprocal tariffs, he suggested that tariff exemptions could also be applied to auto parts.

Reuters Yonhap News

President Trump made these remarks during a meeting with Nayib Bukele, President of El Salvador, in the White House Oval Office when asked if there were specific items under consideration for temporary tariff exemptions.

He said, "We are looking for ways to help automobile companies," adding, "They are shifting to produce parts here that they currently manufacture in Canada, Mexico, and other regions," and "They need a little more time."

President Trump implemented a 25% tariff on imported automobiles starting from the 2nd of this month and plans to impose tariffs on imported auto parts beginning next month on the 3rd. However, about two weeks after the auto tariffs took effect, he hinted at the possibility of exempting tariffs on future auto parts.

When asked whether Apple products or smartphones could be exempt from tariffs, he responded, "I haven't changed my mind, but I am a very flexible person," and added, "I don't want to hurt anyone." He further stated, "Maybe something could come out of it," but emphasized, "The final outcome will be that America will be in a great position."

Earlier, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) excluded 20 electronic products, including smartphones, PCs, and hard disk drives, from reciprocal tariffs imposed by the U.S. on various countries on the 11th. Although President Trump clarified the day before that he had not announced any tariff exemptions and that he would review the entire semiconductor and electronics supply chain, his remarks and actions mentioning flexibility have been inconsistent. This has led to assessments that President Trump is retreating in the tariff war.