General
The temporary surcharge was introduced under Section 122 of the Trade Act after the Supreme Court overturned tariffs previously imposed through the International Emergency Economic Powers Act in February.
However, Section 122 measures can remain in force for only 150 days without approval from Congress. With that period now coming to an end, the Trump administration is seeking alternative legal routes to maintain and expand its tariff programme.
Sections 232, 301 and 338 are expected to form the basis of the next phase. These powers allow the US government to impose tariffs in response to national security concerns, unfair trading practices and alleged discrimination against American commerce.
The move towards more targeted measures is already under way. A 25% tariff on many Brazilian imports came into effect this week under Section 301, while a 50% tariff on selected Canadian products has been announced under Section 338 and is due to begin next month.
China is widely expected to face further pressure, while exporters in the UK and European Union could also be affected as the administration develops its revised strategy.
As the world waits for the President and his team to reveal their next move, Croft Cargo continues to offer an extensive range of air and ocean freight services to and from North America. Please do not hesitate to contact the team for more information.

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