Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday a temporary increase in tariffs on all global imports from 10% to 15%, marking the maximum level permitted by law. This move follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision to suspend his earlier tariff measures.

According to Thai News Agency, the announcement comes just a day after President Trump initially declared a blanket 10% tax, following a judicial ruling that he had exceeded his authority under the Emergency Decree. The new tariff structure is based on Section 122 of the Constitution, a previously unused provision allowing a maximum tax rate of 15%, but necessitating congressional approval for any extension beyond 150 days. The unprecedented use of this section may incite future legal challenges.

Trade experts and congressional advisors remain skeptical about whether the Republican-majority Congress will consent to extend the tariffs, especially given public opinion polls suggesting an increasing number of Americans are attributing rising prices to these measures. President Trump, however, has communicated through social media his intention to utilize the 150-day period to enforce other legally permissible tariffs. The administration plans to employ two additional laws that enable tariffs on specific goods or countries, contingent on national security investigations or unfair trade practices.

The ruling has received mixed reactions from international leaders. French President Emmanuel Macron commended the decision as an example of a democratic system's robust checks and balances and adherence to the rule of law. Likewise, German Chancellor Friedrich Matz expressed optimism that the ruling would ease pressures on German businesses. He intends to underscore the detrimental effects of tariffs on all parties during his forthcoming visit to the United States.