US eyes new tariffs as existing trade duties near expiration

What the report says

Al Jazeera reported that United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has signalled that Washington may soon introduce another round of tariffs, as President Donald Trump’s temporary global duties approach a Friday expiration unless Congress extends or replaces them. Speaking on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Greer indicated action was expected when asked about possible tariffs affecting 60 trading partners, but he did not give a firm schedule.

According to the report, the current tariffs were imposed in February under Section 122 of the US Trade Act of 1974, a provision that lets the president apply duties of up to 10 percent for 150 days without congressional approval. Al Jazeera said the administration turned to that authority after the Supreme Court rejected Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for broad global tariffs, finding that the president did not have that power under the law.

The report said the White House has readied new levies tied to several complaints against trading partners, including alleged failures to address forced labour. Greer said the measures could apply to a large share of US trade, a prospect that could further strain relations with major partners such as China, Japan and the European Union.

Al Jazeera also placed the possible action alongside recent tariff moves, including duties on Brazilian imports and a planned 50 percent tariff on a range of Canadian goods. The outlet noted that economists and tax analysts have warned that US businesses and consumers carry most tariff costs, while US stock indexes were trading higher at midday.