The United States has announced sweeping new tariffs on all semiconductor chips imported into the country, setting a rate as high as 100%. This bold move forms part of former President Donald Trump’s “America First” economic strategy and directly calls out Taiwan’s significant involvement in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Trump unveiled the tariffs on 31 July, stating the duties would apply to “all chips and semiconductors entering the US,” unless companies commit to manufacturing within American soil. This incentive aims to encourage semiconductor firms to relocate production back to the US.

Taiwan in the Crosshairs

Trump specifically criticised Taiwan during his remarks, saying, “Everyone drained Intel before moving elsewhere, especially Taiwan.” This pointed statement highlights US concerns over the shifting of chip manufacturing overseas, which has impacted domestic companies like Intel.

Moreover, Trump warned companies failing to fulfil their promises to build factories in the US that tariffs would be retroactively enforced. This approach underscores Washington’s determination to bring critical tech manufacturing back home.

Impact on the Global Semiconductor Industry

Industry watchers expect the 100% tariff to send significant ripples through the global semiconductor ecosystem, heavily reliant on Asian producers, including Taiwan’s giant Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).

While Trump mentioned that TSMC’s US investment was downgraded from a previously claimed US$300 billion to US$200 billion, this figure remains above TSMC’s own official estimate of US$165 billion. Despite these discrepancies, Trump remains confident that chip manufacturers will ultimately commit to US-based production.

Wider Economic and Trade Repercussions

This tariff announcement follows a series of trade disputes and signals intensified US efforts to secure semiconductor supply chains domestically, a critical move amid growing geopolitical tensions.

Taiwan, as a leading semiconductor hub, faces potential challenges if these tariffs disrupt trade flows or increase production costs. Industry experts warn this could reshape regional supply dynamics and affect global technology markets.

The internationally acclaimed electronic dance music (EDM) festival Tomorrowland is set to debut in Asia, with Pattaya’s Wisdom Valley officially confirmed as the venue for the 2026 event. Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong announced the confirmation, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting this major entertainment event.

The festival is expected to generate an estimated 21 billion baht (approximately S$850 million) in revenue over a five-year contract, marking a significant boost to the local tourism economy. Tomorrowland’s arrival in Chon Buri province, where Pattaya is located, has excited EDM fans across the region, who have awaited official details since rumours emerged last year.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Governor, Thapanee Thamrongthanyawong, emphasised that while the private sector will primarily fund the festival, the government will provide necessary support to ensure Thailand’s competitive hosting of the event. She confirmed that the festival will run from 2026 to 2030, expecting to attract around one million visitors in total.

Public Concerns Over Budget and Social Issues Surrounding the Festival

Despite the positive economic outlook, the government’s planned investment of 1.6 billion baht (about S$65 million) for the event has sparked debate. Critics argue that this budget could be better allocated to supporting families of soldiers and civilians affected by recent border conflicts.

Minister Sorawong responded by assuring that the Tomorrowland funding comes from a separate budget and that the government will continue to provide appropriate assistance to those impacted by security issues. This distinction aims to alleviate public concerns and maintain focus on both social welfare and tourism development.

Fans and the tourism sector remain eager for further information on ticket sales and the festival schedule. The government and event organisers have committed to delivering a world-class experience while balancing national priorities.

Tomorrowland’s Arrival to Boost Thailand’s Tourism and Entertainment Profile

Tomorrowland’s decision to hold its first Asian edition in Pattaya underscores Thailand’s growing reputation as a vibrant hub for international events. The festival is expected to catalyse significant growth in hospitality, transportation, and entertainment sectors in the region.

This high-profile event also presents opportunities for local businesses and artists, fostering cultural exchange and creating jobs. With careful planning and investment, Tomorrowland could become a landmark attraction in Thailand’s annual event calendar.

As anticipation builds, authorities continue to work closely with stakeholders to ensure a safe and memorable festival for both visitors and residents alike.

In a shocking incident in Alor Setar, Kedah, four criminals fleeing from a series of break-ins in Johor collided with and fatally injured a police officer during a botched getaway.

The incident occurred at about 3:30pm on 7 August at a location known as Bukit Gajah. According to Kedah Police Chief Azri, officers responded promptly to a report of a break-in, dispatching two vehicles with a total of five police personnel.

Upon arrival, the officers spotted one suspect moving a safe inside a house. The suspect was seated in a blue Lexus, joined by three others inside the vehicle. As one officer alighted to investigate, the driver accelerated and rammed the officer, killing him instantly. The car forced its way between two police vehicles, damaging three cars in the process.

While one suspect was apprehended on the scene, the other three sped away northwards for about seven kilometres to Raia Hotel in Kampung Pati, where their vehicle broke down. The fleeing suspects then carjacked a civilian’s vehicle—a couple were inside at the time, with the male driver forced out—before abandoning that car after a crash near a government clinic in the area. The trio was later arrested.

The four suspects, aged between 24 and 26, have extensive criminal records, with the 26-year-old identified as the ringleader holding 77 prior offences. Charges include burglary, vehicle theft, and drug-related crimes.

The police have launched investigations under burglary and murder statutes and will seek to extend detention orders for the suspects. Coordination with Johor police is ongoing to uncover any accomplices.

The deceased officer, Sergeant Mohammad Hafiz, 35, had served in the force for 15 years and leaves behind three young children aged 4, 9, and 11. The police chief expressed deep sorrow over the loss.