Following a major legal defeat regarding his trade policies, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a sharp warning to international trade partners.
He cautioned that any nation attempting to “play games” or retreat from existing trade agreements would face significantly higher tariffs.
The President’s comments come shortly after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down his administration’s emergency tariff measures, ruling them illegal.
In a swift response, Trump utilized Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 to implement a temporary global tariff—initially set at 10% and later raised to 15%—as he seeks alternative legal pathways to maintain his “America First” economic agenda.
Trump emphasized that the court’s decision does not signal a softening of his trade stance. He specifically addressed ongoing deals, including the framework with India, asserting that they remain in effect but will be executed through different legal mechanisms.
Countries that have already reached trade terms with the U.S. are expected to honor them or risk being hit with even more aggressive duties.
The administration’s move has created a ripple of uncertainty across global markets. European Union lawmakers have already paused a key trade deal with the U.S. as they seek clarity on the legality of these new measures, while businesses worldwide brace for potential retaliatory actions and a complex fight for refunds on previously paid duties.
