U.S. Rewires AI Chip Flows: Case-by-Case China Exports Paired With 25% Section 232 Tariff Gate
A January 2026 U.S. policy package relaxes export licensing review for certain mature advanced AI chips to China/Macau, but ties practical access to U.S.-departure shipments with extensive certifications and U.S.-based testing. A simultaneous 25% Section 232 tariff with no duty drawback for reexports raises costs and reshapes incentives toward U.S. semiconductor production while potentially discouraging export-oriented electronics assembly.