AI Data Insight
US semiconductor imports (seasonally adjusted) reached USD 27,500 million in the first quarter of 2026, surging 26.4% from USD 21,759 million in the previous quarter and setting a new historical high. Although the US initiated Section 232 tariffs earlier this year, exemption clauses for AI data centers and other applications have been effective. Coupled with the capital expenditure boom of cloud giants, this has sustained strong and unwavering demand for semiconductor imports.