WASHINGTON, Feb 22, 2026 — In a significant escalation of trade policy, United States President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he is raising the global tariff rate on imports to 15 percent, after a major legal setback at the US Supreme Court challenged his tariff authority.
The move comes after the Supreme Court, in a 6-3 decision, ruled that the president had exceeded his constitutional powers by using an emergency economic statute — the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) — to impose broad global tariffs on imported goods.
Following the ruling, Trump initially introduced a 10 percent global tariff by invoking a different legal avenue under the Trade Act of 1974 (Section 122), which allows temporary tariffs of up to 15 percent in specified circumstances.
However, Trump announced on social media that his administration would immediately increase the tariff to the 15 percent level fully allowed and legally tested under current law, claiming the adjustment was in response to the legal limitations imposed by the Supreme Court.
“This decision is fully within the scope of our legal authority, and we will protect American industry and workers by ensuring that foreign countries pay their fair share,” Trump said in a statement posted online. He described the Supreme Court ruling as “anti-American” and criticised the majority justices, describing their views as influenced by foreign interests.
Despite the court striking down much of his earlier tariff powers, Trump also praised the conservative justices who dissented, affirming his belief that executive trade authority should not be restricted.
Tariffs imposed under Section 122 are temporary and can remain in force for up to 150 days without congressional approval. The White House said the revised tariff regime will take effect immediately, though exemptions are expected for sensitive sectors such as pharmaceuticals and energy products.
The Supreme Court’s ruling — the most significant rebuke of Trump’s economic policy since his return to the presidency — also upheld certain sector-specific tariffs, such as those on steel and aluminium, meaning parts of his trade agenda will remain unaffected.
International reaction has been mixed. Some allies have welcomed the Supreme Court’s check on executive power, while other nations that face potential tariff increases have expressed concern about the implications for global trade stability.
Analysts say that while Trump’s tariff strategy is aimed at correcting trade imbalances and protecting American industries, the unpredictable shifts in tariff rates and legal authority may complicate global supply chains, increase costs for consumers, and heighten tensions with major trading partners.
Overall, the move highlights ongoing debate about the U.S. government’s trade powers and the future of international commerce, as governments, industries, and markets seek clarity amid evolving policy uncertainty.
