Apple, Samsung and other companies could face a 25% tariff on imported phones to the US

Amidst the trade tensions between the US and the European Union, US President Donald Trump said that iPhones that are not manufactured in the country could face a 25% tariff, which would not apply in case that such production is established in the US.

The president commented to journalists that the measure could also apply to other manufacturers such as Samsung, as it would not be “fair” if it only applies to Apple. This is part of a strategy by the Trump administration to re-shore industrial production to the country.

Reuters reports that tariffs on specific manufacturers don’t have a legal path, which could mean that the tariffs cannot be directed toward one company. Some argue that, using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, Trump could impose such a tariff.

In the past, Trump has also threatened other industries with tariffs to incentivise them to move their factories back to the country. Such is the case with semiconductor companies that could also face increasing tariffs.

To date there have been no specific decisions made in this regard.