Apple will not be forced to deal with increased tariffs on Chinese components until June 2027, thanks to the effective tariff rate being set at zero for approximately 18 months, according to a Federal Register filing (via CNBC). The tariff rate will increase on June 23, 2027, with the specific percentage to be announced at least 30 days in advance.
This means Apple will at least near-term be able to avoid higher import costs on a range of chips it uses in its devices and accessories. While Apple uses its own custom Apple Silicon-based A-series and M-series processors, which are manufactured by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company in Taiwan, the Cupertino firm relies on Chinese suppliers for many other components, which would be subject to increased tariffs in 2027.
While the US government is technically imposing the tariffs immediately, being set at a zero percent rate preserves the legal and regulatory framework needed to raise tariffs at a later date, reducing immediate trade friction while retaining leverage in future negotiations, and providing clarity to firms like Apple amid long-term supply chain decisions.
Apple is in th middle of an ongoing effort to diversify its component sourcing and manufacturing to other countries other than China.
