#TrumpAnnouncesNewTariffs

The global trade arena has entered one of its most critical turning points in recent years as of February 2026. U.S. President Donald Trump's resolute stance on trade policies took on a new dimension following a recent Supreme Court ruling. The court's decision to invalidate broad tariffs previously implemented under the IEEPA (International Emergency Economic Powers Act) on the grounds of executive overreach has forced the Washington administration into a strategic shift.
In response to this ruling, President Trump promptly announced the activation of Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. This move brought about a new 15% global tariff package aimed at closing the significant deficits in the U.S. foreign trade balance. Initially planned at 10%, this rate was increased to the legal maximum of 15% following an update over the weekend. Expected to take effect on February 24, this new regulation—defended under the "balance of payments" argument—has triggered a deep wave of uncertainty across global markets.
Are Global Trade Agreements at Risk?
This new development presents a complex landscape, particularly for actors like the United Kingdom, the European Union, and India, which signed special trade agreements with the U.S. just last year. For instance, it remains a matter of curiosity how existing agreements with India—which lowered tariff rates on items like textiles and pharmaceuticals to 18%—will harmonize with this new 15% general tax. Although White House representatives stated that previous bilateral agreements would be honored, global supply chain managers are bracing for a new era of protectionism based on the principle of "reciprocity."
On the other hand, it is reported that products essential to the U.S. economy, such as food, fertilizer, and certain strategic raw materials, will be exempt from this tax. However, cost increases appear inevitable across a wide spectrum, from the manufacturing sector to technology. While market analysts acknowledge that this move has the potential to boost domestic American production and employment, they also point to the potential price pressures on consumers and the risk of retaliation from trade partners.
This process is characterized not merely as an economic adjustment, but as a diplomatic chess match where the rules of global trade are being rewritten. These steps, taken in line with Washington’s "America First" vision, will remain the most discussed topic in both the legal and economic worlds for the next 150 days.