As the U.S. government conducts a security impact investigation on semiconductor imports under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, our government submitted the opinion that "import restrictions on semiconductors and manufacturing equipment may negatively impact our semiconductor corporations' investment plans in the U.S."
According to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy on the 7th, the U.S. Department of Commerce initiated a security impact investigation into semiconductor and semiconductor manufacturing equipment imports under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act on the 1st of last month. The U.S. Department of Commerce held a public comment period from the 16th to the 21st of last month.
The Ministry prepared a government opinion document by sharing the details of the Section 232 investigation with private and public stakeholders through joint task force meetings and discussing the anticipated impacts of potential measures.
On the 6th, the Ministry submitted a written opinion and emphasized the trade balance between the two countries in the semiconductor and manufacturing equipment sectors. It also noted that "import restrictions on semiconductors and manufacturing equipment may have negative effects not only on the U.S. AI infrastructure investment but also on the investment plans of semiconductor corporations in the U.S., which is concerning."
Additionally, it emphasized that the negative impact of Korean-made semiconductors and manufacturing equipment on U.S. security and supply chain risks is very limited and requested special consideration for Korea.
The government plans to make every effort to minimize the impact on our corporations by continuously promoting close consultations with the U.S. at all levels. Additionally, the government will communicate closely with the industry to develop response measures and will continue outreach efforts to the U.S. in the public-private partnership.