US President Donald Trump has announced that he will increase import taxes on goods coming into America. The decision comes shortly after the Supreme Court struck down his earlier tariff policy. Now, Trump raises global tariffs to 15%, using a different trade law to continue his economic agenda.
The move follows a 6-3 ruling by the Supreme Court of the United States, which said Trump went beyond his authority when he imposed broad tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). In response, Trump signed a new order under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. This law allows temporary tariffs of up to 15% for 150 days without immediate approval from Congress.
Because Trump raises global tariffs to 15%, businesses across the world are now reviewing how the new rate will affect trade with the United States. The new tariff replaces the earlier 10% baseline rate and is described by the White House as a temporary measure while other legal options are explored.
Under the new policy, most goods imported into the US will face a 15% tariff. However, some products are exempt. These include critical minerals, certain metals, energy products, and pharmaceuticals. At the same time, separate tariffs on steel, aluminium, and automotive parts remain in place under different laws.
The court’s decision has also triggered a wave of legal action. Importers argue that billions of dollars collected under the previous tariff system were unlawful. Government data shows that more than $130bn was collected under the emergency powers law. Now that Trump raises global tariffs to 15%, businesses are also pushing for refunds of earlier payments.
Several US lawmakers have reacted strongly. Some Democrats say the new tariffs will increase costs for American consumers and businesses. They argue that higher import taxes often lead to higher prices in stores. Meanwhile, some Republican leaders believe the policy will strengthen domestic manufacturing and protect American jobs.
Trade partners such as the United Kingdom and Australia are also watching closely. Earlier agreements had set a 10% tariff rate for some countries. With Trump raising global tariffs to 15%, questions remain about how existing trade deals will be adjusted during the 150-day period allowed under Section 122.
Economists warn that uncertainty could slow global trade growth. Businesses must now decide whether to absorb the added costs or pass them on to customers. Smaller importers may face more challenges, especially if legal battles over refunds take years to resolve.
Trump has defended the policy by saying tariffs are necessary to reduce the US trade deficit and encourage companies to produce goods within America. However, recent data shows that the US trade deficit has continued to widen, reaching around $1.2 trillion.
As Trump raises global tariffs to 15%, the next five months will be critical. Congress may need to approve any extension beyond the temporary period. More legal challenges are also possible, since Section 122 has rarely been used in this way.
For now, global markets, businesses, and governments are waiting to see what happens next. While the White House says the move brings certainty, many analysts believe trade tensions and legal disputes are far from over.
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