The administration of US President Donald Trump has implemented exceptionally high anti-dumping tariffs on solar modules imported from Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia. Most notably, Cambodia faces tariffs as high as 3,521% due to its lack of cooperation during investigations. This action reflects the administration’s firm approach to combating “origin-washing,” a practice where manufacturers reroute products through third countries to circumvent US trade restrictions. Market experts indicate that tariffs above 60% typically disrupt bilateral trade, and rates exceeding 3,500% effectively result in an almost complete halt of imports from the affected countries.
Taiwan’s industrial PC (IPC) manufacturers are intensifying efforts to localize production and expand their presence in North America amid increasing tariff pressures from the US. Ennoconn has altered its initial strategy to build a factory in Mexico, choosing instead to set up a new facility in Tennessee, with operations expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025. Similarly, Advantech is considering the creation of a printed circuit board assembly and contract manufacturing center in the US, signaling a wider industry move toward domestic production as companies adapt to evolving trade policies.