In a bold move defying recent judicial setbacks, President Donald Trump has escalated global tariffs to 15 percent, invoking Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act. This announcement comes just one day after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down major portions of his earlier tariff measures, sending shockwaves through international trade circles.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump lambasted the court’s ‘ridiculous and extraordinarily anti-American’ ruling on tariffs. He framed the hike as a direct response, stating it follows a ‘thorough, detailed, and complete review’ of the decision. ‘As President of the United States, I am immediately increasing the 10 percent global tariff on those countries that have been ripping us off for decades without penalty,’ he declared.
The escalation builds on an initial 10 percent tariff Trump had set, now maxed out at the 15 percent ceiling allowed under the rarely used provision. Section 122 empowers the president to impose such duties for up to 150 days without congressional approval, applying universally to all imports rather than targeting specific nations.
This legal maneuver sidesteps the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision, which rejected the administration’s reliance on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for broad tariff authority. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. wrote for the majority that the president cannot impose tariffs on any product from any country at any rate under that law.
Trump’s fiery response didn’t hold back: ‘The Supreme Court’s decision on tariffs is extremely disappointing. I am ashamed of some of its members for lacking the courage to do the right thing for our country.’ He did, however, praise Justices Thomas, Alito, and Kavanaugh for their ‘strength, wisdom, and love.’
The invalidated tariffs had generated over $130 billion in revenue, raising questions about potential refunds and injecting fresh uncertainty for businesses and foreign governments. National security-related items like steel and automobiles remain exempt from the new 15 percent levy.
Looking ahead, the administration promises new, legally robust tariffs in the coming months to sustain the ‘extraordinarily successful process of making America great again.’ Countries that previously conceded under tariff pressure may now reassess their stances as Washington recalibrates its legal footing.
This tariff saga underscores the ongoing battle over U.S. trade policy, with Trump doubling down on protectionism amid legal hurdles. Global markets are bracing for impacts, as the 15 percent blanket duty could reshape supply chains and inflation dynamics worldwide.