What legal authority is Trump using for the new double-digit tariffs, and why did he shift from previous tariff mechanisms?

Trump is using Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 for the new tariffs, which permits the president to impose import taxes against countries found to engage in 'unjustifiable,' 'unreasonable' or 'discriminatory' trade practices — a mechanism previously upheld by courts when used against China. He shifted from the earlier 10% worldwide tariffs under Section 122 (which expire after 150 days) and from the invalidated IEEPA-based tariffs, after the Supreme Court ruled that IEEPA does not authorize tariffs and forced the administration to issue refunds to importers.

What is the stated justification for the new tariffs, and which countries are affected?

The stated justification is that the 60 targeted trading partners — accounting for 99% of U.S. imports — have 'inadequately enforced bans on goods produced by forced labor.' The new tariffs range from 10% to 12.5%, with some countries like India receiving lower rates (e.g., reduced from 12.5% to 10%) after tightening enforcement, while others such as Brazil face the full 12.5% levy.

Trump Imposes Double-Digit Tariffs on Dozens of Countries as 10% Levies Expire

Jul 24, 2026

President Trump announced new 10% to 12.5% tariffs on 60 trading partners effective Friday, citing inadequate forced labor enforcement. While oil, gas, and fertilizer are exempted, the move risks retaliatory measures and higher consumer prices amid ongoing trade tensions.

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