Donald Trump on Saturday increased the global tariff on imports into the United States to 15 percent, pressing ahead with his hardline trade agenda just a day after the Supreme Court of the United States ruled that much of his tariff program was unlawful.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the court’s decision as “extraordinarily anti-American” and said that, following a review, his administration would raise import duties “to the fully allowed, and legally tested, 15% level.”
The move came hours after the court’s 6–3 ruling rejecting his use of a 1977 economic emergency powers law to impose sweeping tariffs. In response to that decision, Trump had first announced a new 10 percent global levy under a different legal authority before increasing it again to 15 percent.
The president also lashed out at conservative justices who joined the majority, accusing them of “disloyalty” and calling them “fools and lap dogs.” At the same time, he praised Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Brett Kavanaugh — the latter a Trump appointee — for backing his authority to impose tariffs.
The ruling marked a rare setback for Trump at a court that has largely sided with him since his return to office 13 months ago. It struck at the heart of his signature economic policy, which has disrupted global trade and strained relations with allies and rivals alike.
Saturday’s announcement is expected to heighten uncertainty in global markets, as Trump continues a trade strategy that has seen tariff rates repeatedly introduced, revised or withdrawn over the past year.
Under the law cited by the White House, the new 15 percent duty can remain in place for up to 150 days. A White House fact sheet said exemptions would continue for sectors under separate investigations, including pharmaceuticals, as well as goods traded under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Countries that negotiated separate tariff arrangements with Washington would also be subject to the new global rate.
The court’s decision did not affect sector-specific tariffs previously imposed on steel, aluminum and other products. Ongoing federal investigations could still result in additional targeted duties.
Financial markets reacted cautiously, with Wall Street shares edging higher after the long-anticipated ruling. Business groups welcomed the decision, saying it provided greater clarity for companies navigating shifting trade rules.
During oral arguments, the administration had indicated that companies would be refunded if the tariffs were ultimately found unlawful, though the court did not directly address the issue. Trump predicted prolonged legal battles over potential repayments, while Justice Kavanaugh warned that any refund process could prove complicated.
Several governments said they were reviewing both the ruling and Washington’s latest tariff measures. In Europe, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced plans to consult with allies to develop a coordinated response ahead of a visit to Washington in early March.
At home, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro urged the president to respect the court’s decision, end what he described as chaotic tariffs, and ease pressure on farmers, small businesses and families.
