White House Confirms 15 Percent US Tariff on EU Imports

The White House has clarified that the United States will impose a 15 percent tariff on a broad range of imports from the European Union, following a recent Supreme Court decision on trade policy. According to a senior administration official, this new tariff is based on a global trade directive signed by US President Donald Trump, with the measure also affecting imports from the United Kingdom, India, and Japan.

The tariff, which is initially set for 150 days, marks a significant shift in US trade policy, signaling a tougher approach to international trade relationships. While the White House has indicated that this measure is temporary, the administration has warned that higher tariffs could be imposed if trading partners attempt to circumvent the new regulations.

The new tariff policy, as outlined by US government sources, will not apply universally to all goods. Exemptions include pharmaceuticals, active pharmaceutical ingredients, automobiles, and heavy trucks. Additionally, certain product categories may be subject to different rates depending on the country of origin, reflecting existing trade agreements and ongoing negotiations.

Previously, a White House directive had set a global tariff rate of 10 percent and listed several exceptions. The recent announcement raises the general rate to 15 percent, with officials stating that the policy may be reviewed and adjusted as needed. The European Union has requested clear information from Washington regarding the scope and duration of the tariffs to determine its response strategy.

The White House has indicated that the authority for this tariff comes from a 1974 trade law, which permits the president to impose tariffs for a limited period without congressional approval. However, extending such tariffs beyond 150 days would require legislative support. Trade experts have raised questions about whether the current legal framework provides sufficient grounds for the temporary measure and whether all procedural requirements have been met.

The administration has stated its intention to restore previously negotiated or more balanced tariff rates after the temporary measure expires. In the interim, the White House has emphasized that the current tariffs are meant to address what it views as imbalances in global trade and to encourage more favorable terms for American industries.

The European Commission had previously noted that its existing trade agreement with the US had functioned effectively and called on Washington to honor agreed limits on tariffs. EU officials have stated that they are awaiting further clarification from US authorities before deciding on any countermeasures or adjustments to their own trade policy.

The announcement has heightened tensions between the US and its trading partners, with concerns about a potential escalation into a broader trade conflict. The US administration has cautioned that any attempts by other countries to undermine the new rules could result in even higher tariffs and additional measures.

The situation remains fluid as both US and EU policymakers assess the implications of the tariff policy and consider possible negotiations or retaliatory actions. The coming weeks are expected to be critical in determining the future direction of US-EU trade relations and the broader landscape of international commerce.