Arabic version: ترامب يرفع التعريفات العالمية إلى 15% بعد حكم المحكمة العليا
According to BBC News,
US President Donald Trump has announced an increase in global tariffs from 10% to 15%, following a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated his previous import taxes. This decision was shared on Truth Social, where Trump criticized the court’s ruling as “ridiculous” and “anti-American”. The new tariffs, which are a temporary measure under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act, will allow the tariffs to remain in place for approximately five months before requiring congressional approval.
The Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision determined that Trump overstepped his authority by implementing sweeping tariffs using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This ruling has significant implications for trade agreements previously established with countries like the UK and Australia, which had negotiated a 10% tariff deal with the US. It remains uncertain if the 15% tariffs will be enforced starting on February 24, as initially planned for the 10% rate.
Business leaders have expressed mixed reactions to the Supreme Court’s decision and the subsequent tariff increase. Drew Greenblatt, a steel manufacturer, expressed disappointment, viewing the ruling as detrimental to American workers. Conversely, John Boyd, a Virginia soybean farmer, considered it a victory for his industry. Allie Renison, a former UK government trade adviser, warned that the situation complicates trade further, creating a “patchwork approach” to tariffs.
The new tariffs will impact a wide range of imports, although some essential products like critical minerals and pharmaceuticals will be exempt. Existing tariffs on steel, aluminum, and other goods remain unaffected by the court’s ruling. A White House official confirmed that countries with prior trade agreements would be subject to the new global tariff, which could lead to unfavorable conditions for businesses engaged in transatlantic trade.
The ruling also opens the possibility for businesses to seek refunds for previously collected tariffs deemed unlawful by the Supreme Court. The US Chamber of Commerce has highlighted the importance of swift refunds for small business importers, which could provide a significant economic boost. Meanwhile, questions remain regarding the administration’s plan to manage these refunds, as lawmakers urge for clarity on the process. Senator Maria Cantwell has inquired about reimbursement strategies, while some Republicans caution that refund efforts could politically benefit their party in upcoming elections.
