US Tariff Rate to Hit 15 Percent or More for Some Nations: Jamieson
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced that the tariff rate for certain countries will increase to 15percent or more from the recently implemented 10percent, without identifying specific trading partners or providing additional information.
Greer informed Fox Business Network's "Mornings with Maria" show that the Trump administration plans to keep tariffs on Chinese products at existing levels as President Donald Trump is set to visit China in the upcoming weeks.
"Currently, we have a 10percent tariff in place. It could reach 15(percent) for some, and then possibly higher for others, aligning with the kinds of tariffs we've observed," Greer stated.
Greer mentioned that the White House was gearing up to issue a statement to increase the temporary tariffs to 15percent when suitable. He mentioned that it would "accommodate" nations that possess trade agreements but did not offer specifics.
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He stated that the administration aimed to ensure it follows appropriate legal procedures for the increase, adding: whenever we impose a tariff, there will be foreign interests seeking to reduce it. Therefore, individuals will take legal action against us.
Greer informed Fox Business that the administration's strategy to substitute emergency tariffs overturned by the Supreme Court with new duties, such as temporary tariffs under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, which began on Tuesday at a 10percent rate, aligns with current trade agreements.
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He stated that inquiries into unfair trade practices under Section 301 of that same legislation would be the focal point of the replacement initiative, aimed at nations that create surplus industrial capacity, employ forced labor in their supply chains, discriminate against U.S. tech companies, or subsidize rice, seafood, and other products.
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Greer mentioned that he and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent have consistently discussed the matter of excess industrial capacity with Chinese officials, noting that unprofitable Chinese companies are permitted to remain operational and keep producing thanks to government assistance.