‘US tariffs on mining rigs are rising sharply’ as CleanSpark, IREN report massive liabilities

The ongoing U.S.-initiated trade conflicts are creating significant ripple effects across the Bitcoin mining sector, with potential clashes involving Customs and Border Protection (CBP) threatening substantial financial risks for domestic firms.

This central insight emerged from The Miner Mag’s recent industry analysis, which explored strategies employed by mining companies to maneuver through a tariff landscape reshaped by persistent economic rivalry between the U.S. and China.

Following tariff adjustments by the Biden administration targeting several Asian nations, applicable rates now reach 57.6% for mining hardware manufactured in China and 21.6% for devices imported from Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, the publication noted.

The report further disclosed that U.S.-listed mining operators IREN and CleanSpark recently received CBP notices regarding suspected Chinese origins of certain equipment shipments.

CleanSpark cautioned investors about possible penalties reaching $185 million, while IREN is currently challenging a separate $100 million claim from the agency.

Alongside tariff challenges, mining income continues facing strain, according to the analysis, with network hash rates stagnating under $60 petahashes per second and transaction fee contributions dipping below 1% of block rewards.

IREN and MARA Holdings both generated over 700 BTC in July. Source: The Miner Mag

Meanwhile, American Bitcoin—supported by associates of former President Donald Trump—activated a contract clause this month to secure 16,000+ mining units from China-based Bitmain. As previously reported, this arrangement exempts tariff-related price fluctuations from affecting the deal terms.

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The sector continues confronting relentless challenges—managing elevated operational expenses, reduced profit margins, and increasing regulatory scrutiny. Extended trade disputes have intensified these pressures, driving miners to refine import strategies and broaden supplier networks.

Industry observers note that elevated tariffs on mining gear might suppress U.S. equipment demand, possibly favoring international competitors. Final outcomes will depend on future tariff regulation developments.

Major Chinese manufacturers like Bitmain, Canaan, and MicroBT have initiated setting up U.S. operations to counteract rising trade barrier costs.

Canaan’s approach proves distinctive: Beyond relocating its corporate base to Singapore, the firm unveiled investments in American facilities designed to bypass import restrictions.