The U.S. tariff rate for some trading partners could rise to 15% or higher from the recently imposed 10% level, according to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
In a Wednesday interview, Greer confirmed that while the current universal tariff is set at 10%, it will increase to 15% for some countries and potentially above that for others, though he did not specify which nations would face the higher rates.
US Supreme Court Ruling on Tariffs
The backdrop to this announcement is a recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court, which struck down much of a broader set of tariffs previously imposed under emergency powers.
In response, President Donald Trump moved to reestablish global import levies at 10% under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which authorises temporary tariffs of up to 15% to address serious trade imbalances.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has since issued notices implementing the 10% rate, though White House officials and Greer have said that raising it to 15% is legally permissible and likely forthcoming.
The Section 122 tariffs are set to last a maximum of 150 days unless extended by Congress. President Trump has indicated a rapid increase to the 15% ceiling but analysts note that formal execution requires additional legal steps, and the interplay between the Supreme Court’s decision and tariff authorities continues to fuel uncertainty.
What This Means for Global Trade
If implemented, higher tariffs could increase costs for exporters and importers worldwide and may prompt countries to revise supply chains or renegotiate trade terms with the United States. Economists and business groups are watching closely for formal tariff schedules and legal challenges that could accompany the shift from 10% to a 15% baseline.
