US President Donald Trump announced an increase in universal import duties from 10% to 15% for all countries worldwide. He published the corresponding statement on February 21 on his social network Truth Social.
According to the head of state, the decision takes effect immediately and is aimed at 'restoring justice' in international trade. Trump emphasized that many countries have, in his estimation, benefited from favorable trade conditions with the USA at the expense of the American economy for decades. The new tariff level, the president stated, is 'completely legal and justified'.
The court's decision and the White House's reaction
The increase in tariffs occurred the day after the U.S. Supreme Court declared a number of previously imposed large tariffs by the administration illegal. The court ruled that in imposing tariffs against dozens of trading partners, including EU states, the president exceeded his authority, citing the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977.
The decision affected so-called 'reciprocal' tariffs on imports from almost all countries in the world, as well as 25 percent tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China. The court concluded that the use of emergency powers in this case did not correspond to the grounds provided for by law.
Commenting on the verdict, Trump called it 'deeply disappointing' and criticized the judges, stating that their position harms the interests of the country. He emphasized that the administration will continue to seek 'legally sustainable mechanisms' to protect the national economy.
New measures and possible consequences
According to a statement from the White House, the increased tariffs of up to 15% will take effect on February 24 and will remain in place for 150 days. To extend them for a longer period, approval from the U.S. Congress will be required. The administration also reported that additional tariff measures compliant with legislative requirements are planned to be prepared in the coming months.
Experts note that such a move could escalate trade relations with key partners of Washington and provoke retaliatory measures. At the same time, within the country, the initiative has already become a subject of political discussions: the president's supporters consider it necessary to protect American producers, while critics warn of the risk of rising prices and increased inflationary pressure.
The situation surrounding U.S. trade policy continues to evolve, and further decisions by the administration and reactions from international partners could significantly impact global markets.