US Extends Tariff Exemptions on Graphics Cards and Motherboards Until 2025

The US government has decided to extend the tariff exemptions on graphics cards, motherboards, and SSDs imported from China for another year. This exemption will now last until May 31, 2025, according to a report by PCMag. This decision contradicts earlier indications that Trump-era tariffs on these components would be reinstated.

Background on Tariffs

In 2018, the US government, under former President Donald Trump, imposed a 25% tariff on certain products made in China. This included graphics cards, motherboards, SSDs, and other products relying on printed circuit boards. The Trump administration suspended tariffs on products such as ‘graphics processing modules’ and ‘unfinished logic boards’ in September 2019 until January 2021. Although the Biden administration did not remove the import rule altogether, it continued to suspend it temporarily through an exclusion process.

Recent Developments

The US Trade Representative (USTR) recently extended the tariff exemptions, which initially suggested that tariffs would continue. The administration re-enabled these exemptions to support efforts to find alternative sources outside of China, where availability remains limited.

Impact on Businesses and Consumers

ASRock confirmed the exclusion in a conversation with PCMag, emphasizing its importance for its business. The decision benefits consumers and PC vendors as well. Many companies reportedly lobbied for these exemptions due to the scarcity of electronics manufacturing outside China. The Biden administration initially lifted tariffs on these components in 2022 through a temporary exclusion process, which has now been extended.

Other products, such as air fryers, certain video cameras, and specific bicycle models, will continue to face Trump-era tariffs. Additionally, the administration has increased import fees on Chinese steel, aluminum, semiconductors, electric vehicles, EV batteries, and solar panels.