With Donald Trump signaling a return to aggressive tariffs, the tech industry is bracing for disruption. His renewed tariff proposals, aimed at China and other major trading partners, could reshape global supply chains, push up costs for key tech components, and trigger big changes for tech giants like Apple, Nvidia, and Microsoft.

For developers and tech professionals, this isn’t just about politics or trade. It could directly impact your job prospects, salaries, and the way companies think about remote work. Here’s what you need to know.

Supply chain headaches ahead

Trump’s tariffs are set to target key sectors including semiconductors, electronics, and rare earth materials. These are the lifeblood of tech production. Most chips and components used by US tech companies are still heavily dependent on supply chains that run through Asia, particularly China, Taiwan, and South Korea.

Tariffs will likely increase the cost of imported hardware and materials. Big tech firms, already navigating a fragile post-pandemic supply chain, could face higher manufacturing costs and longer delays. Some companies might speed up efforts to diversify supply chains, moving production to countries like Vietnam, India, or even back to the US—but that won’t happen overnight.

How this could impact developers

Higher costs for hardware can mean tighter budgets across the board. Companies may slow down hardware-intensive projects, delay upgrades, or rethink investments in new infrastructure. This can create a ripple effect in hiring.

Expect a cautious hiring environment, especially for roles tied to hardware development, embedded systems, or chip design. On the flip side, software developers—particularly those working in AI, cloud, and cybersecurity—may find themselves in higher demand as companies shift focus to software-driven solutions to offset hardware challenges.

Salary trends: pressure or opportunity?

If big tech companies face squeezed margins, they may tighten salary offers, especially for junior and mid-level roles. However, top-tier talent in areas like AI, data engineering, and cybersecurity will likely remain highly competitive.

There’s also a chance that companies will use global uncertainty as a reason to renegotiate offers or delay raises. Developers should be prepared to navigate tougher negotiations and have a strong case ready for their value and impact.

Remote work: a strategic advantage

One unexpected outcome could be an even stronger push toward remote work. Tariffs that inflate costs may force companies to look for savings elsewhere. Remote-first policies allow companies to tap into talent pools in lower-cost regions without setting up expensive physical offices.

This could open more international remote opportunities for developers who are willing to work across time zones. Companies that were previously reluctant to hire outside of major tech hubs might now expand their search globally to control costs.

What developers should do now

Stay informed: Keep an eye on how major companies are responding to tariff news. Moves like shifting production or announcing hiring freezes are early signals of where the market is heading.

Sharpen in-demand skills: Focus on areas that are less hardware-dependent. Cloud computing, cybersecurity, AI/ML, and software architecture will remain strong regardless of supply chain shifts.

Be flexible: Companies might change course quickly. Developers who can pivot between roles or projects—and who show resilience under changing conditions—will have an advantage.

Think globally: If remote work expands, so do your options. Look beyond your immediate region for new opportunities and be ready to work in more international, distributed teams.

Final thoughts

Trump’s tariffs could be a major stress test for big tech in 2025, but they’re also a reminder of how interconnected the tech world has become. For developers, the turbulence may bring both challenges and opportunities. Those who stay agile, continue to learn, and position themselves in strategic areas of tech will be best prepared to thrive, no matter how the political winds shift.