Trump’s Global Tariff Rollout Begins at 10% Amid Policy Adjustments

New global tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump have officially taken effect at a rate of 10%, lower than the higher levels previously indicated.

Following a ruling by the US Supreme Court that blocked several of his broader import tax measures, Trump initially announced plans for a 10% global tariff before later signalling an increase to 15%.

However, official documentation confirms that the tariffs were implemented at the 10% rate from Tuesday, with no formal directive yet issued to raise them further. The White House is reportedly working on updating the rate to reflect the proposed 15%, though no timeline has been confirmed.

The move follows Friday’s executive order introducing the temporary tariff under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act. This provision allows the president to impose import duties for up to 150 days without requiring approval from Congress.

The administration stated the measure aims to address international payment imbalances and strengthen trade conditions for American workers, farmers, and manufacturers.

Trump has consistently argued that tariffs are essential to narrowing the US trade deficit — the gap between imports and exports. Despite these efforts, the deficit widened by 2.1% last year, reaching approximately $1.2 trillion.

The ruling from the Supreme Court also centred on the president’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which had previously enabled the administration to collect at least $130bn in tariffs.

Legal and business responses are now emerging. Logistics giant FedEx has filed a lawsuit seeking a full refund of import taxes paid under IEEPA, while advocacy group We Pay The Tariffs says it represents more than 900 American companies requesting swift reimbursement.

While some analysts warn that shifting tariff policies could heighten global trade tensions, administration officials have indicated that the measures are designed to recalibrate trade relationships in a way that supports domestic economic priorities.