US Pauses New China Chip Tariffs Amid 'Aggressive' Push Probe; Future Hike Looms

• US delays new tariffs on Chinese semiconductors until at least mid-2027, pausing immediate escalation despite an 'aggressive' push probe.
• USTR probe found China's semiconductor policies constitute unfair trade practices disadvantaging US companies.
• Current additional tariff rate on targeted legacy chips remains 0% for 18 months; future hike scheduled for June 23, 2027.
• Delay is due to economic and diplomatic calculations, aiming to maintain leverage without disrupting ongoing US-China trade negotiations.
• China criticized the US stance as "indiscriminate use of tariffs," vowing to protect its interests if the US continues its current path.

Why It Matters: US delays new China chip tariffs to manage trade tensions, despite finding Beijing's practices unfair.