Trump's Tariff Tactics: Unyielding Paths to Economic Leverage

Despite the Supreme Court blocking Trump's sweeping tariffs, the former president retains various means to implement aggressive import taxes. Utilizing historical trade laws from the Great Depression era, Trump seeks to continue his economic strategies, including the contentious use of Section 301 and Section 232 tariffs.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Washington DC | Updated: 21-02-2026 02:03 IST | Created: 21-02-2026 02:03 IST
Trump's Tariff Tactics: Unyielding Paths to Economic Leverage
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Former President Donald Trump remains undeterred in his efforts to impose substantial tariffs on imports, despite a Supreme Court decision that struck down his previous attempts. Trump's steadfast approach involves dusting off historical tariff powers and enhancing economic tactics with new legal pathways.

Trump criticized the Supreme Court's verdict, remarking on the availability of powerful alternatives to sustain his aggressive trade strategy. His plans include a 10 percent global tariff under a specific trade law, valid for 150 days and extendable only by Congress, alongside a suite of other potential tariff tools requiring legal processes.

Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 remains a valuable instrument for addressing 'discriminatory' trade practices, predominantly targeting China. Meanwhile, Section 232 tariffs pivot on perceived national security threats. Trump's tariff policy continues to fuel debate over the balance of presidential authority and legislative oversight in trade matters.

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