U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States will increase its global import tariff from 10% to 15%, the highest level allowed under the law, following a decision by the Supreme Court of the United States that struck down his previous tariff program. The announcement came less than 24 hours after Trump had introduced a 10% tariff on imports from all countries.
The court ruled that the president exceeded his authority when imposing higher tariffs under an emergency economic powers law. In response, the administration is now relying on Section 122, a rarely used legal provision that allows tariffs of up to 15% but requires approval from the United States Congress if they are to remain in place beyond 150 days.
According to the White House, the tariffs include exceptions for certain products, such as critical minerals, metals, and energy-related goods. However, trade experts remain skeptical that Congress—despite a Republican majority—will extend the tariffs, as growing public concern links tariffs to rising prices.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he would use the 150-day window to explore other legally permissible ways to impose tariffs, potentially targeting specific countries or products based on national security or unfair trade investigations.
The court’s opinion, written by Chief Justice John Roberts, concluded that the law previously used by the administration did not grant the authority claimed. The ruling drew support from both conservative and liberal justices.
International reactions followed quickly. French President Emmanuel Macron said the decision demonstrated the importance of checks and balances in democratic systems, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed hope that the ruling would ease pressure on German companies and reiterated that tariffs ultimately harm everyone.
