Bitmain, Canaan, and MicroBT, China’s top three Bitcoin mining machine makers, are building factories in the United States, in a bid to force a relocation. These companies, which control over 90% of the global market for Bitcoin mining rigs, are responding to hefty new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.
Why the Move to the U.S.?
The Trump administration’s recent tariffs, including a 10% baseline on imports from many countries and an additional 20% on Chinese goods, have significantly impacted Chinese manufacturers. Bitmain kicked off U.S. production in December 2024, right after Trump’s election win, while Canaan started trial runs in April 2025 to avoid the so-called “Liberation Day” levies. MicroBT is also setting up local assembly to sidestep these costs.
The U.S. is a prime destination because it is reportedly the biggest market for Bitcoin mining, contributing 40% of Canaan’s revenue last year. Local production cuts shipping costs and tariff burdens, making rigs more affordable for American miners. Additionally, the country offers stable energy and a crypto-friendly stance, as evidenced by Trump’s self-proclaimed title as the “crypto president.”
The Effect of Trade Wars and Regulations
This kind of move seems not to be strange to crypto firms, as some have relocated due to regulatory pressures. For instance, after China banned Bitcoin mining in 2021, many miners and exchanges fled overseas. Canaan moved its headquarters to Singapore while keeping some Chinese operations. Bitmain and MicroBT shifted some of their production to Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia during Trump’s first term to avoid earlier tariffs.
In 2023, U.S. Customs seized $5 million worth of mining machines from MicroBT and Canaan, citing trade restrictions, which prompted these firms to localize their operations further. Meanwhile, Bitdeer, a Bitmain spin-off, plans to launch “Made in USA” machines in 2025 to navigate Southeast Asian tariffs. These examples demonstrate how trade wars and regulations compel crypto companies to adapt quickly or risk losing market share.
As Bitmain, Canaan, and MicroBT establish a presence in the U.S., their outlook appears promising yet cautious. Local production could stabilize supply chains and boost profits by dodging tariffs. Yet, security worries and competition from U.S. firms like Auradine loom large.
