WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump announced he would raise a temporary across-the-board tariff on U.S. imports from 10% to 15%, the maximum level permitted under Section 122 of U.S. trade law, following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down his earlier tariff programme.
The decision comes a day after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that Trump had exceeded his authority by imposing higher tariffs under an economic emergency statute.
In response, Trump initially declared a universal 10% tariff but has now increased it to 15%, effective immediately.
The new tariffs are being implemented under Section 122, a rarely used provision that allows temporary duties of up to 15% for 150 days without prior congressional approval.
However, any extension beyond that period would require Congress to sign off. No previous U.S. president has invoked Section 122, and legal experts suggest the move could trigger fresh court challenges.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he would use the 150-day window to explore additional “legally permissible” tariffs, potentially relying on other statutes that allow import taxes tied to national security or unfair trade practices.
The White House confirmed that certain products — including critical minerals, metals, and energy goods — would be exempt from the Section 122 tariffs.
Trade analysts expressed concern over the growing uncertainty facing global markets. Wendy Cutler, a former senior U.S. trade official, noted that the rapid shift in tariff policy highlights unpredictability for America’s trading partners.
Trump has frequently described tariffs as a key tool in negotiating trade agreements. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said countries that previously agreed to higher negotiated rates — such as Malaysia and Cambodia at 19% — would still be required to honor those commitments despite the universal 15% cap.
The ruling could temporarily benefit countries like Brazil, which had faced tariffs as high as 40% but may now see rates reduced to 15% under the new framework.
Meanwhile, Trump’s economic approval ratings have declined. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll found that 34% of respondents approve of his handling of the economy, while 57% disapprove.
The administration has indicated that further trade measures could follow in the coming months as it seeks alternative legal pathways to reshape U.S. trade policy.
