Trump announces global tariffs increased from 10% to 15% "effective immediately"! Strongly retaliates after ruling tariffs as illegal

U.S. President Donald Trump once again stirs global trade turbulence. Just one day after the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 that his tariff measures were illegal, dealing a heavy blow to his trade policies, Trump announced on Saturday via Truth Social that the original 10% global tariffs would be increased to 15%, emphasizing that the increase is “immediately effective.”

Supreme Court 6-3 ruling: Illegal use of IEEPA

The trigger for this development was a major judicial decision on Friday. The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 6-3 vote, ruled that Trump incorrectly invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to implement his large-scale tariff measures, finding that the action exceeded legal authority.

This ruling effectively nullifies a series of tariff policies previously pushed forward by Trump under the guise of a national emergency. For Trump, who advocates a tough trade stance, it is undoubtedly a significant blow.

Trump immediately criticized the ruling on social media, calling it “absurd, poorly worded, and extremely anti-American,” and publicly named the two justices who cast the majority votes, expressing strong dissatisfaction with their positions.

(The Supreme Court explicitly rejects Trump’s tariff authorization claims, with a 6-3 decision undermining the White House’s economic agenda)

Swift counterattack: shifting to Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974

However, Trump did not back down. Just hours after the ruling, he announced that he would rely on Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 as the legal basis to restart the 10% global tariffs.

This section allows the President, under certain conditions, to impose temporary tariffs within 150 days; extensions require congressional approval. This indicates that Trump’s tariff actions still have a legal basis, but are now pursued through an alternative legal pathway.

A fact sheet released by the White House on Friday stated that the original 10% global tariffs would take effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, February 24. However, in a Saturday post, Trump further announced that the tariff rate would be increased from 10% to 15%, emphasizing that it is “immediately effective.”

It remains unclear whether an official executive order or legal document has been signed to specify the implementation time and scope of the 15% tariff. The White House has not responded to further media inquiries.

“Exploited for decades,” Trump emphasizes trade justice

In his post, Trump stated that many countries have been “exploiting the United States” for years, and that he only began to take countermeasures after taking office. He emphasized that the 10% global tariff will be raised to a “fully authorized, legally tested” 15%.

He also previewed that in the coming months, the Trump administration will announce new, legally permissible tariff measures. This suggests that 15% may not be the end, but rather the beginning of a new round of tariff policies.

For supporters, this is a strong stance defending American interests; but for businesses and importers, it could mean higher costs and supply chain uncertainties.

Market and business risks amid uncertainty

Although Trump claims the measures are “immediately effective,” the market is more concerned about whether full legal procedures have been followed. If an official executive order has not yet been issued, will companies need to preemptively adjust customs declarations, procurement, and pricing strategies?

Legal experts analyze that while Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 does grant certain powers to the President, its scope and legitimacy could face judicial challenges again. Especially given that the Supreme Court has already rejected the previous use of IEEPA, future litigation remains uncertain.

Additionally, if the 150-day period expires, any extension would require congressional approval, which could become a new battleground in political negotiations.

Pre-State of the Union: political and economic strategies

It is noteworthy that Trump is scheduled to deliver his State of the Union address next Tuesday. Announcing the increase in global tariffs beforehand undoubtedly adds momentum to his speech.

This move can be seen as a strong response to the Supreme Court ruling, while also signaling to supporters that—even in the face of judicial challenges—the government will continue to push forward with an “America First” trade policy.

However, from legal risks and market reactions to international relations, the actual impact of the 15% global tariffs remains to be seen. If subsequent tariff measures continue to escalate, the global trade environment could be further destabilized.

Overall, this tariff battle has evolved from a simple trade policy issue into a systemic contest among executive, judicial, and legislative powers. In the coming months, the U.S. and global markets will closely watch Trump’s next moves.

This article, titled “Trump Announces Global Tariffs Raised from 10% to 15% ‘Immediately Effective’! Strong Counterattack After Ruling Declares Tariffs Illegal,” first appeared on Chain News ABMedia.