President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing a new 10% tariff on imports from virtually all countries, effective February 24, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. Washington time. This move comes just hours after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down many of his previous sweeping global tariffs in a major ruling.
In a Truth Social post, Trump declared: “It is my Great Honor to have just signed, from the Oval Office, a Global 10% Tariff on all Countries, which will be effective almost immediately.” The White House described the tariff as a temporary measure under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows the president to impose duties of up to 15% for up to 150 days to address international payment imbalances and trade deficits.
The Supreme Court’s decision invalidated tariffs previously enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which the court ruled exceeded presidential authority. Trump responded critically to the ruling, calling it disappointing and lashing out at certain justices, while quickly pivoting to this alternative legal pathway to maintain his trade agenda.
The new 10% baseline tariff applies on top of any existing duties and covers most foreign imports, with exemptions for certain goods such as specific food products, critical minerals, metals, energy items, and products already subject to separate tariffs unaffected by the court decision. This aims to protect U.S. economic interests, reduce trade deficits, and bolster domestic industries amid ongoing global trade tensions.
Economists and trade experts warn that the tariff could raise costs for American consumers and businesses reliant on imported goods, potentially fueling inflation and prompting retaliatory measures from trading partners. Global markets have reacted with uncertainty, as this adds another layer of volatility to international supply chains.
Trump’s administration frames the policy as a necessary step to strengthen America’s competitive edge and protect workers from unfair trade practices. The 150-day limit provides a window for negotiations or further adjustments, though the president has indicated flexibility in extending or modifying such measures.
This development marks a rapid escalation in Trump’s second-term trade strategy, following earlier “reciprocal” tariffs and threats against specific nations. As the policy takes effect, importers, exporters, and consumers worldwide will monitor its real-world impacts on prices, trade flows, and diplomatic relations.
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