AsianFin -- The Trump administration has initiated investigations into imports of pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, setting the stage for potential tariffs on national security grounds, according to Federal Register notices posted Monday.

The filings, set for official publication on Wednesday, open a 21-day window for public comment and signal that the administration plans to use Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to justify the measures. Section 232 investigations must be completed within 270 days of initiation.

The move follows a series of similar probes under Trump's first term, including investigations into copper, lumber, steel, aluminum, and autos—many of which led to tariffs after his return to office in January.

While the U.S. began collecting a 10% tariff on imports starting April 5, pharmaceuticals and semiconductors were initially excluded. However, Trump has said both sectors will face separate levies. On Sunday, he said he plans to announce a tariff rate on imported semiconductors within the next week, noting there may be flexibility for certain companies.