Washington: The administration of Donald J. Trump has announced a temporary 10 percent import duty aimed at addressing what it describes as deep-rooted imbalances in international payments and trade flows.
In a fact sheet released by The White House on February 20, the President confirmed he had signed a proclamation authorizing the short-term tariff measure under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. The move is intended to respond to what officials characterize as structural pressures on the U.S. balance of payments.
According to the administration, the 10 percent ad valorem duty will apply to a broad range of goods entering the United States for a period of 150 days. The tariff is scheduled to take effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on February 24.
The proclamation frames the measure as part of a broader effort to protect domestic industries and encourage production within U.S. borders. By making imports more expensive, the administration argues, the policy could help curb capital outflows, strengthen manufacturing, and generate employment opportunities at home.
However, the order also outlines several exceptions. Certain categories of goods deemed critical to economic or national interests will not be subject to the temporary duty. These include select critical minerals, metals used in currency and bullion, as well as energy and related products. Officials said the exclusions are designed to ensure that the tariff achieves its objectives without disrupting essential supply chains.
The administration has described the measure as a corrective step rather than a permanent shift in trade policy. While the 150-day timeframe underscores its temporary nature, trade analysts say the move could have significant ripple effects across global markets, particularly if negotiations with trading partners intensify during the implementation period.
Further details on enforcement and sector-specific implications are expected in the coming days as federal agencies prepare to implement the new directive.
