Bessent: US to raise global tariffs to 15 per cent this week

According to CNBC, US President Donald Trump's administration plans to introduce global import tariffs of 15 percent this week. It refers to statements made by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.

Last year, Trump imposed extensive tariffs on imports from most countries around the world without the consent of Congress, citing the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. However, on February 20, the Supreme Court ruled that the president did not have the authority to bypass Congress and impose tariffs in this manner.

Shortly after the court's decision, Trump signed an executive order to impose a global 10 percent tariff under another law. He then announced that the rate would be increased to 15 percent with immediate effect, but in practice it has remained at 10 percent.

Bessent said in an interview with CNBC that the increase to 15 percent could be implemented in the coming days. He added that these substitute tariffs under the 1974 Trade Act can remain in effect for a maximum of 150 days unless Congress approves their extension.

During this period, US trade authorities are to prepare studies that will enable further trade measures to be introduced. Bessent also expects that within approximately five months, customs duties will return to the level they were at before the Supreme Court's decision.

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