Tariff Whiplash: U.S. Miners Rush to Import Rigs Amid Policy Turbulence

In the wake of President Donald Trump’s temporary suspension of steep tariff hikes, U.S.-based Bitcoin miners could scramble to import as many mining rigs as possible before the window closes.

Yet, despite this 90-day relief period, industry insiders say the lingering 10% base tariffs and unpredictable policy swings continue to put American miners on shaky ground.

Trump’s decision to pause his administration’s “reciprocal tariffs” until July 8 has offered momentary relief, especially with China’s rate spiking to a staggering 145%. 

But for mining firms relying on hardware from Southeast Asia, the situation remains complex. Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia — homes to several top mining rig manufacturers — still face tariffs of 36%, 32%, and 24% respectively, creating a significant cost burden.

Jaran Mellerud, CEO of mining research firm Hashlabs, believes this instability is already taking its toll. “The 10% tariff might not be crippling, but it’s enough to raise upfront costs and complicate future investment planning,” he stated. He added that the current pause has triggered a short-term surge in imports, as miners rush to get ahead of any new hikes.

Miners Brace for Price Surge

The rush to import has already driven up prices for the U.S.-landed machines, according to Ethan Vera, COO at Luxor Technology. “We’re seeing price increases not only for the rigs themselves but also in onshore assembly contracts,” Vera noted. 

The firm, which operates mining pools and provides mining infrastructure, is now reassessing its growth strategy and exploring international expansion due to the policy unpredictability.

While the tariffs haven’t yet made mining in the U.S. unprofitable, experts warns they’re stifling long-term confidence. 

Political Promises vs. Economic Realities

Trump has made public statements backing U.S. dominance in Bitcoin mining, even proclaiming he wants all “remaining Bitcoin to be made in the USA.” His family has also dipped into the mining sector, with recent partnerships in a venture dubbed “American Bitcoin,” aiming to build the world’s largest mining firm.

But on the ground, industry voices like Vera aren’t convinced. “Crypto mining isn’t a priority for the administration,” he said. “And that shows.”

As of now, Bitcoin sits at $81,000 — down 1.2% over 24 hours and nearly 26% off its all-time high in January, the same day Trump returned to office.