US mining tariffs may slow down domestic crypto infrastructure while giving Russian companies a strategic advantage. According to Ethan Vera, COO of Luxor Technology, new tariffs proposed by Donald Trump’s administration could increase the cost of importing mining equipment into the U.S., prompting a global shift in crypto mining operations.
How US Mining Tariffs Affect Global Crypto
The U.S. still relies heavily on imports from Asia, especially from Bitmain, which controls over 80% of the ASIC miner market. The upcoming US mining tariffs could raise hardware costs from 12.6% to as much as 38%.
Ethan Vera warns this will hurt American mining companies and push many to seek alternatives abroad — particularly in Canada, Chile, Brazil, and Argentina.
Meanwhile, crypto mining in Russia could surge as Chinese investors redirect capital toward less restricted markets.
Russia May Gain from US Policy
Russia could benefit significantly. Without equivalent tariffs, it can access cheaper equipment and expand faster. Vera believes that favorable conditions and low energy costs make Russia an appealing hub for mining infrastructure.
At the same time, the Ministry of Finance in Russia is exploring ways to tax Bitcoin mining reserves and hardware rentals. Despite this, Vera argues that Russia still offers a more flexible environment.
Ethan Vera: Shift Is Already Underway
According to Vera, the shift in mining strategy has already begun. “The uncertainty caused by US mining tariffs is forcing firms to reassess operations,” he said.
Some firms are selling off parts of their Bitcoin mining reserves to cover rising costs. Others are pausing hardware upgrades and seeking joint ventures in regions with lower regulatory pressure.
This may also reduce the U.S. share in global hash rate over time — a reversal from recent dominance.
A Warning for American Miners
Vera emphasizes that increased tariffs won’t just raise costs — they’ll also make the U.S. less competitive. “Unless addressed, these changes will make it harder for the U.S. to remain a leader in crypto mining,” he added.
Without timely regulatory balance, the US mining tariffs may end up strengthening global competitors, especially crypto mining in Russia.
