Trump Strikes Back: US Prez Invokes Rare Powers to Slap 10% Tariff Hours After SC Setback

By Oneindia Desk

Updated: Saturday, February 21, 2026, 7:50 [IST]

In a move that sends shockwaves through global markets, US President Donald Trump has signed an order imposing a 10% global tariff on all imports, effective from 12:01 a.m. ET on February 24, 2026. This decision comes as a defiant response to a recent US Supreme Court ruling that declared his previous trade levies illegal.

The Legal Maneuver: Section 122

After the US Supreme Court struck down tariffs imposed under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act, President Trump pivoted to a rarely used tool: Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.

AI Summary

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U.S. President Donald Trump implemented a 10% global tariff on all imports, effective February 24, 2026, using Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 after the Supreme Court struck down previous tariffs. These tariffs will last 150 days and impact India, which is currently negotiating an Interim Agreement with the U.S.

Trump Strikes Back US Prez Invokes Rare Powers to Slap 10 Tariff Hours After SC Setback

The Duration: These new duties will last for 150 days (approximately five months).

The Loophole: Section 122 allows the President to bypass long investigations to address "serious balance of payments issues."

The Extension: To continue beyond 150 days, Trump will require approval from the US Congress.

Impact on India: A Balancing Act

The timing of this order is particularly sensitive for New Delhi. Just days ago, India and the US reached a "framework for an Interim Agreement" aimed at fostering reciprocal trade.

While the 10% global tariff adds a new layer of cost, the existing US-India Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) negotiations remain the primary focus for the Modi administration. Under the current framework:

Sector	Impact/Status
Indian Exports	Textiles, leather, footwear, and machinery currently face an 18% reciprocal tariff in the US.
Pharmaceuticals & Gems	US has signaled it may remove tariffs on Indian generic drugs, diamonds, and aircraft parts if the Interim Agreement is finalized.
US Goods in India	India has agreed to reduce tariffs on US industrial goods, soybean oil, tree nuts, and spirits to secure market access.
The "Russia Factor"	Previously, India faced a 25% penalty tariff for importing Russian oil; the new 10% levy adds further complexity to these energy costs.

“India Stopped Buying Oil From Russia”: Donald Trump Claims Tariffs Helped Prevent India-Pak Conflict; Watch

Why It Matters to You

The "trade war" is no longer just a diplomatic headline-it has a direct price tag. Experts estimate that these trade policies could cost the average household significantly as supply chain costs are passed down to consumers.

For India, the stakes are high. The US remains one of India's largest trading partners. While the 10% global levy is a setback, the "Interim Agreement" offers a potential shield for key Indian industries like Generic Pharma and Artisanal Products, provided New Delhi can successfully navigate the next 150 days of negotiations.

"They all remain," Trump posted on Truth Social, confirming that despite court losses, his protectionist stance is here to stay.