Australian exporters have been handed a narrow reprieve after the United States formalised a temporary 10% global tariff on most imports, stop-gapping President Donald Trump’s earlier threats of a steeper 15% levy.
The decision follows a landmark US Supreme Court ruling on Feb. 20, which found the administration had exceeded its legal authority by invoking the Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose "reciprocal" tariffs.
In response, the White House pivoted to the Trade Act of 1974, enabling a 150-day import restriction that applies even to high-volume Australian goods valued under US$800.
While the 10% rate is lower than the anticipated 15%, the Australian Government remains on high alert.
Trade Minister Don Farrell, currently in Los Angeles for the 'G'Day USA' initiative, confirmed he will seek urgent talks with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to "prosecute the argument" for a total exemption.