Trump's new tariffs take effect

2026-02-24 17:25:15Kosova&Bota SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX

Trump's new tariffs take effect

US President Donald Trump's new global tariffs have come into effect at a rate of 10%, lower than initially announced.

The decision comes after the U.S. Supreme Court blocked most of the previously imposed sweeping tariffs, forcing the administration to reconsider its approach.

According to official documents, the 10% rate took effect on Tuesday, despite Trump's earlier statements about a global tariff of 15%. The White House has not yet issued a directive on the rate increase.

The executive order signed by Trump is based on Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which allows the president to impose tariffs for 150 days without congressional approval. According to the administration, the measure aims to address “fundamental international payments problems” and rebalance trade relations in favor of American workers, farmers and manufacturers.

Trump has argued that the tariffs are necessary to reduce the US trade deficit. However, the latest data shows that the deficit has widened by 2.1% compared to 2024, reaching about $1.2 trillion.

On Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the president had exceeded his authority by using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977 to impose sweeping tariffs. The ruling paves the way for potential claims for billions in refunds from businesses.


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