Donald Trump raised the global duty on imports into the United States to 15% on Saturday, escalating his trade policy just one day after the Supreme Court curtailed his authority to impose such tariffs. The move, announced on Trump’s Truth Social platform, follows the court’s ruling that limited the president’s power under a 1977 economic emergency powers act.
Trump stated that, following a review of Friday’s Supreme Court decision, his administration was increasing import levies “to the fully allowed, and legally tested, 15% level.” Earlier in the week, after the initial 6-3 ruling, Trump had announced a 10% global levy, citing a different legal justification.
While Trump’s announcement indicated the tariffs would take effect “immediately,” the precise timing remains unclear. A White House fact sheet released Friday regarding the initial 10% tariffs specified a start date of 12:01 a.m. ET on February 24th.
The response from international leaders was swift. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced plans to travel to Washington with a unified European stance, warning of the “poison” of increased economic uncertainty. French President Emmanuel Macron indicated France would assess the consequences of the new tariffs, advocating for a principle of “reciprocity” in trade relations.
American businesses are also reacting to the Supreme Court’s decision and the subsequent tariff hike. Top business associations are seeking refunds for tariffs previously paid, following Friday’s ruling. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has called for the swift return of an estimated $133 billion in collected tariffs covered by the court’s decision.
The tariff escalation comes amid other developments within the Trump administration. On Thursday, a large banner displaying Trump’s image was displayed on the Justice Department headquarters, drawing criticism from some who characterized it as exhibiting “dictator vibes.” Trump approved a federal emergency declaration Saturday related to a sewer main break near Washington D.C., potentially impacting the city’s 250th anniversary celebrations this summer.
Simultaneously, the U.S. Is engaged in ongoing negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program. Iran’s foreign minister has stated a draft counterproposal is expected within days, while Trump has indicated he is considering limited military strikes.
