US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has signalled that tariffs on select trading partners will rise to at least 15%, above the baseline 10% global import duty that took effect on 25 February 2026, after the Supreme Court struck down President Trump's earlier emergency tariffs. The measures will target countries deemed guilty of unfair trade practices through Section 301 investigations, with China, Vietnam, and Indonesia among those in the crosshairs.
US Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer announced, on 25 February 2026, that tariff rates will increase to 15% or higher for certain countries, up from the current 10% rate that took effect on 24 February 2026.
However, he did not specify which nations would face the higher duties.
On 25 February 2026, the US began imposing a new 10% global import tariff after a Supreme Court decision invalidated President Trump’s earlier emergency tariffs, which had ranged between 10% and 50%.
Speaking on Fox Business Network, Greer indicated that the Trump administration does not plan to raise tariffs on Chinese goods beyond existing levels, particularly as President Trump prepares for an upcoming visit to China. Greer indicated that the Trump Administration does not plan to raise tariffs beyond the levels currently in effect, underscoring its commitment to upholding the existing trade agreement.
The tariff increases will be implemented through Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 and Section 301 investigations targeting unfair trade practices. Greer explained that these measures are compatible with existing trade agreements and will focus on countries with excess industrial capacity, forced labour in supply chains, discrimination against US technology firms, or subsidies for products like rice and seafood.
Countries specifically mentioned as concerns include China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. In Indonesia’s case, a Section 301 investigation will monitor compliance with a recent deal where Indonesia agreed to a 19% US tariff rate.
Greer also noted that Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 remains available, allowing tariffs up to 50% on imports from countries that discriminate against US trade.
Earlier, on 20 February 2026, Greer announced plans to launch multiple investigations under Section 301 trade provisions targeting most major trading partners, following the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.
