Trump unveils trade actions to protect key solar and semiconductor material

On August 7, US President Donald Trump announced a series of trade actions to safeguard key solar and semiconductor materials, primarily produced in China. The White House imposed a 15% tariff and price floor on products made from polysilicon, a crucial component in semiconductors and solar panels. This move aims to bolster domestic chip and solar supply chains, ensuring the competitiveness of US production in artificial intelligence and energy sectors.

Polysilicon, an ultra-pure form of silicon, marks the beginning of the semiconductor and solar manufacturing supply chains. The US has two polysilicon factories, operated by Hemlock Semiconductor and Wacker Chemie. The trade measures include setting minimum import prices for polysilicon, ingots, wafers, solar cells, and modules, as well as an incentive program for companies investing in polysilicon production.

Major domestic solar manufacturers, including T1 Energy, First Solar, and Qcells, expressed support for the administration's decision, highlighting its significance for advanced American manufacturing and energy supply chains.