Trump declares global tariff hike to 15% following court setback

President Donald Trump announced Saturday an immediate increase in the global tariff from 10% to 15% in a move widely seen as a response to a court decision on Friday that struck down certain duties he imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

Trump unveiled the new rate in a post on Truth Social, stating that the move is within his lawful authority. The US’ chief executive also noted that the administration will soon establish additional tariff measures to advance his trade agenda.

That came shortly after Trump asserted that existing national security and trade enforcement tariffs would stay in place despite the Supreme Court ruling.

The 6-3 ruling prompted the White House to shift its legal footing to Section 122 of the Trade Act, which grants the president authority to impose temporary import levies.

“Effective immediately, all national security tariffs remain in place, fully in place, and in full force and effect,” Trump said yesterday when enacting a 10% baseline duty on most imports.

The administration has relied heavily on import taxes as a tool for shielding American manufacturers amid persistent global trade friction. Levies on steel, aluminum, automobiles, and copper enacted earlier remain in effect, while energy products and pharmaceuticals are carved out of the broader measures.

Since returning to office in January 2025, the president has pursued an aggressive stance on cross-border commerce, targeting goods from China, Canada, and Mexico. Officials have framed the strategy as a means of shrinking the trade gap, generating federal revenue, and bolstering domestic employment.

The White House has also initiated investigations into what it characterizes as unfair practices by specific trading partners, signaling that additional action could follow.