The new tariffs cover 99.4% of US imports but exempt energy, fertilizer, food, aircraft parts, critical minerals, steel, aluminum, and automobiles
The Trump administration on Friday imposed new tariffs of 10% and 12.5% on imports from 60 trading partners, including the European Union, China, Japan and South Korea.
The new duties replaced the temporary 10% global measure without interruption, keeping US tariff enforcement in place.
Reasons behind the move
The White House said the levies target countries that fail to enforce bans on goods made with forced labor. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the action aims to protect workers, combat human rights abuses and prevent unfair trade practices.
The tariffs were imposed under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, after the Supreme Court earlier struck down President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariffs in February.
Who is affected?
The new duties cover 99.4% of US imports but exempt several products, including oil, gas, fertilizer, certain food items, aircraft parts, critical minerals, and goods already subject to national security tariffs such as steel, aluminum and automobiles.
Global response
Several countries challenged the decision. Australia, Brazil and Norway called the tariffs unjustified and pledged to seek their removal.
The European Union said the new rates remain within previously agreed trade commitments and expressed hope for further tariff exemptions.