Trump Administration Weighs 15% Polysilicon Tariff, Import Price Floors

Polysilicon is a critical feedstock for silicon wafers used in semiconductors and for cells used in solar panels, with China holding a dominant position in global supply. The Trump administration is using tariffs and trade barriers to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains and encourage U.S. manufacturing, though the measures risk raising costs for chipmakers, solar developers and buyers of downstream electronics.

The Trump administration could announce the measures as early as Aug. 6, according to the report, imposing a tariff of at least 15% on imported polysilicon and setting minimum import prices for semiconductor wafers and solar modules. The U.S. government has yet to confirm the final scope and implementation details. Suppliers and manufacturers are assessing how the proposed rules could affect sourcing, production expenses and end-market prices.