The New 15% Global Tariff: What Importers Need to Know
Just days after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down the broad IEEPA-based tariffs, the administration moved quickly to introduce a new trade measure: a 15% global tariff imposed under separate statutory authority.
While many importers initially believed the Court’s ruling would immediately reduce duty exposure, the reality is more complex.
From IEEPA to a New Legal Framework
The Court ruled that tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) exceeded presidential authority. Following that decision, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) halted collection of those specific IEEPA duties.
However, rather than leaving a gap in trade enforcement, the administration implemented a new 15% global tariff using alternative trade authorities that remain legally in force.
What Is the 15% Global Tariff?
The new measure:
Applies broadly to imported goods unless specifically exempted
Is not tied to IEEPA
Is being collected under separate statutory authority
Exists alongside existing trade remedies such as Section 232 and Section 301 tariffs
In practical terms, importers may still see elevated duty costs , but now under a different legal basis.
Operational Continuity: CBP is actively collecting the new 15% tariff.
Legal Distinction: Challenges to IEEPA do not automatically affect this new measure.
Financial Planning: Companies anticipating relief after the Court’s decision may need to reassess landed cost projections.
Compliance Exposure: Product classification and exclusion eligibility will become even more critical.
This development signals a broader policy reality: while the legal basis for tariffs may shift, the administration’s trade posture remains active. Importers should prepare for continued volatility in tariff authority, enforcement, and potential litigation.
We are closely analyzing scope, implementation mechanics, and potential downstream impacts. Further updates will follow as federal guidance is released.