Trump imposes a 15% global tariff despite Supreme Court ruling, escalating trade tensions and sparking global economic uncertainty

President Donald J. Trump announced a 15 per cent global duty on imports into the United States on Saturday, doubling down on his aggressive tariff policy a day after the Supreme Court struck down much of his authority to levy such levies.

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Trump said on his Truth Social platform that following a review of Friday’s “extraordinarily anti-American decision” by the Court, his administration would raise import duties “to the fully allowed, and legally tested, 15% level.”

The announcement came after the Court’s 6-3 ruling had initially limited Trump’s tariff powers under a 1977 economic emergency statute.

The president also launched a personal attack on the six justices who opposed his authority, calling them “disloyal” and suggesting that foreign interests had influenced the majority.

He praised the three conservative justices — Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh — who upheld his tariff powers, thanking them “for their strength and wisdom, and love of our country.”

Trump’s move is likely to heighten global economic uncertainty.

The new duty is temporary, allowable for 150 days, with exemptions for certain sectors under separate investigations, including pharmaceuticals, and goods imported under the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement.

Countries that previously reached separate tariff deals with the administration are also subject to the new global levy.

Friday’s ruling marked a significant legal setback for Trump, his first major Supreme Court defeat since returning to office 13 months ago.

While sector-specific tariffs on steel, aluminum, and other goods remain unaffected, the broader rejection of his authority undermines a cornerstone of his economic strategy.

Shares on Wall Street rose modestly following the decision, while business groups welcomed the clarity. The National Retail Federation described the ruling as providing “much-needed certainty” for companies navigating complex trade regulations.

Trump indicated that litigation over potential tariff refunds could continue for years, with Justice Kavanaugh noting the process could be “a mess.” Several nations, including Germany, are reviewing the ruling and Trump’s follow-up measures.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said talks with European allies would precede his planned visit to Washington in early March to formulate a coordinated response.

Domestically, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro urged Trump to “listen to the Supreme Court, end chaotic tariffs, and stop wreaking havoc on our farmers, small business owners, and families.”

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Trump’s 15% global tariff underscores his determination to maintain a confrontational trade posture, despite judicial setbacks and growing international scrutiny.