US rolls out new tariffs

These new tariffs have been brought in as a temporary global levy after the Supreme Court’s decision from February this year to block US president Trump’s tariffs expires. The duties, which range from 10% to 12.5% and account for most US imports, impact the UK, China, the European Union, Canada, Japan and India. Yesterday (23 July) US trade representative Jamieson Greer, acting under Trump’s direction, said these duties would now take effect. “Today’s action will begin to correct what is both a human rights abuse and distortive trade practice to improve the welfare of workers everywhere.” Earlier this year, the Supreme Court ruled in a six to three majority that Trump did not have the authority to levy tariffs using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act – a 1977 statute that is meant for emergencies rather than routine trade policy decisions. Have your say or a new account to join the discussion.