The United States government officially implemented new tariffs ranging from 10% to 12.5% on imports from approximately 60 trading partners, including the European Union, China, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and Canada. These duties took effect on Friday at 12:01 a.m. EDT, immediately following the expiration of a 150-day temporary 10% global tariff.

The new measures were enacted under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, following an investigation by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer into the alleged use of forced labor within global supply chains. While the tariffs cover the vast majority of U.S. imports, the administration has included numerous product exemptions, specifically excluding oil, gas, fertilizer, and certain raw materials.

This policy marks a strategic pivot by the Trump administration to maintain a tariff floor after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down broader emergency duties in February. Officials believe utilizing Section 301 provides a more robust legal foundation against potential court challenges. The U.S. Trade Representative is currently conducting ongoing investigations into additional sectors to determine if further adjustments are necessary.