On April 1, the U.S. Department of Commerce formally initiated Section 232 national security investigations into two key sectors: pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.

According to the official Federal Register notices, these investigations will assess the potential risks posed by imports of:

• Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), finished drug products, and related materials
• Semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and downstream electronics products containing semiconductor components

While these investigations suggest a targeted review of electronics and semiconductor-related imports, President Trump has stated separately that there will be no exemptions for electronics under the administration’s broader tariff program. In fact, he has indicated that electronics will be subject to standalone tariffs, distinct from the reciprocal tariffs already in place for imports from countries like China and Mexico.

The public comment period for both investigations will remain open until May 7, 2025.

We will continue to share verified updates, including official notices from CBP and the Department of Commerce, as new details emerge.