Asian Chip Stocks Surge as U.S. Suspends Tariffs, Eases Trade Tensions

Asian semiconductor stocks rallied on Thursday following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 90-day suspension of certain tariffs, offering relief amid ongoing trade tensions. The move reduced newly imposed tariffs to 10% on imports from 57 major trading partners, including Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. The pause allows time for further negotiations and eases fears of supply chain disruptions and rising production costs.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TW:2330) led the rally, with its shares jumping 10%. South Korea’s tech giant Samsung Electronics Co Ltd (KS:005930) saw a 5% rise, while SK Hynix Inc (KS:000660) soared 10%. Taiwan’s MediaTek Inc (TW:2454) climbed 9.7%, and Japan’s Renesas Electronics Corp (TYO:6723) surged 14%, reflecting renewed investor confidence in the semiconductor sector.

Hong Kong-listed shares of China’s Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (HK:0981) rose 6%, and Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd (HK:1347) gained over 4%, despite China being excluded from the tariff pause. In fact, tariffs on Chinese goods were raised to 125%, signaling continued trade pressure on Beijing.

The market response underscores how sensitive the global tech sector is to geopolitical developments. The tariff relief temporarily lifts investor concerns, supporting stock momentum for chipmakers that had been under pressure from rising trade barriers.

With semiconductor firms playing a critical role in global supply chains, the pause in tariffs offers short-term optimism. However, uncertainties remain as the U.S.-China trade conflict continues to cast a shadow over the broader tech industry.

Investors will closely watch upcoming trade talks, as any resolution—or escalation—could significantly impact the semiconductor landscape and global market stability.