China Calls for Tariff Removal Amidst US Legal Turmoil
Beijing, China – China's Commerce Ministry on Monday, February 23, 2026, urged the United States to cancel its unilateral tariff measures, following a significant ruling by the US Supreme Court that struck down many of former President Donald Trump's tariff impositions. The ministry emphasized its long-standing opposition to protectionism, stating that 'there are no winners in a trade war and that protectionism leads nowhere.'
Supreme Court Invalidates Trump's Emergency Tariff Powers
The call from Beijing comes after the US Supreme Court ruled 6-3 on Friday, February 20, 2026, that President Trump had exceeded his authority by imposing sweeping tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977. The court determined that the IEEPA does not grant the president the power to levy broad import taxes. Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, stated that the language in IEEPA, specifically 'regulate…importation,' could not be interpreted to confer such extensive power to impose tariffs. The ruling specifically invalidated tariffs designated as 'reciprocal tariffs' and 'fentanyl-related tariffs,' which were initially imposed by Trump in April 2025.
Beijing's Assessment and Ongoing Trade Tensions
In response to the Supreme Court's decision, China's Commerce Ministry announced it is conducting a 'comprehensive assessment' of the ruling's implications. A spokesperson reiterated China's consistent stance against unilateral tariff increases and warned against the futility of trade wars. The ministry also noted that the US is reportedly exploring alternative measures, such as trade investigations, to maintain increased tariffs. China pledged to 'closely monitor these developments and firmly safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.'
It is important to note that this Supreme Court ruling does not affect all existing tariffs. Tariffs imposed under Section 301 of the Trade Act, which target China's intellectual property practices and technology transfer policies, remain in effect. These tariffs, stemming from a 2018 investigation, apply to approximately $370 billion worth of imports from China, with rates ranging from 7.5% to 25%, and some increases up to 100% following a four-year review.
Trump's Swift Counter-Move and Future Outlook
Despite the legal setback, President Trump reacted 'furiously' to the Supreme Court's decision, calling it 'deeply disappointing.' He swiftly announced new global tariffs, initially 10% and then raised to 15%, under a different legal authority – Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. These new duties are scheduled to take effect on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, for a period of 150 days. The rapid developments underscore the ongoing volatility in global trade relations and the persistent use of tariffs as a tool in international economic policy.
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