US president Donald Trump has announced a sweeping increase in tariffs to 15% on imports from all countries, escalating global trade tensions just days after the Supreme Court struck down his administration’s earlier 10% tariff mechanism, forcing the White House to invoke a different legal authority.
A rapid pivot after supreme court ruling
The decision follows a Friday judgment by the Supreme Court of the United States, which invalidated the legal framework underpinning the previous 10% universal duty. Rather than retreat, Trump moved swiftly to reimpose and deepen the tariffs using alternative executive powers, framing the move as essential to protecting American industry and national economic security.
Speaking from the White House, the president said the new rate would apply immediately to virtually all imported goods, arguing that foreign producers had benefited for decades from what he described as unfair access to US markets. Administration officials confirmed that the revised policy relies on emergency trade authorities not covered by the court’s ruling.
Markets rattled as partners weigh retaliation
Financial markets reacted sharply to the announcement, with major US indices sliding and bond yields falling as investors reassessed growth and inflation risks. Several key trading partners signalled they were reviewing countermeasures, raising the prospect of a new wave of retaliatory tariffs across Europe and Asia.
Economists warned that the blanket 15% levy could feed directly into higher consumer prices, particularly for electronics, vehicles, clothing, and industrial components. Business groups also expressed concern that global supply chains — already strained by geopolitical instability — could face renewed disruption.
“This is a material shock to international trade,” said one senior trade analyst. “A universal tariff of this scale effectively acts as a tax on US consumers while inviting reciprocal action abroad.”
White house doubles down on protectionism
Trump defended the move as a cornerstone of his economic strategy, reiterating his long-held view that tariffs are a powerful negotiating tool. He claimed the policy would encourage companies to relocate manufacturing back to the United States and strengthen domestic employment, dismissing warnings of inflation as “short-term noise.”
The White House also framed the decision as part of a broader effort to rebalance trade relationships, particularly with large surplus economies. Officials said bilateral talks would continue, but stressed that the 15% rate would remain in place unless partners agreed to what Washington considers fairer terms.
Global implications still unfolding
The tariff escalation comes at a delicate moment for the world economy, with growth already slowing in several major regions. International institutions cautioned that further fragmentation of trade could undermine recovery prospects and increase volatility across currency and commodity markets.
Legal experts noted that while the administration’s new authority may survive immediate court scrutiny, fresh challenges are likely. Several industry associations are reportedly preparing lawsuits, arguing that the president is overstepping executive powers and bypassing congressional oversight.
Another turning point in US trade policy
The abrupt shift underscores Trump’s willingness to press ahead with aggressive trade measures even in the face of judicial resistance. Whether the strategy delivers the promised revival of US manufacturing — or instead triggers a broader trade war — remains uncertain.
For now, businesses, investors, and governments worldwide are bracing for the fallout of a policy that could reshape global commerce in the months ahead.
Newshub Editorial in North America – 22 February 2026
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