Tariffs are taxes or duties imposed by the federal government on imported goods. These charges are typically used to generate revenue, protect domestic industries from foreign competition, or influence trade policy. Tariffs are assessed as a percentage of the value of imported goods and are collected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the time of entry into the country.
The U.S. tariff system is governed primarily by the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which classifies goods and specifies the applicable duty rates. The authority to impose or adjust tariffs lies with Congress, but the president may also modify tariffs under certain trade laws, such as the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 and the Trade Act of 1974. These provisions allow for tariffs based on national security, trade imbalances or retaliation for unfair practices.
The use of tariffs can have wide-ranging economic effects. They may lead to increased prices for consumers and businesses that rely on imported materials, while benefiting domestic producers facing reduced competition. Tariffs can also prompt retaliatory measures from trading partners, potentially escalating into trade conflicts.
Trump, South Korea's new president agree to make a deal on tariffs that would satisfy both countries
South Korea's new President Lee Jae-myung said he and President Donald Trump agreed to quickly work toward a deal on tariffs in their first phone call since Lee's election victory.
Delta warns against imposing new tariffs on commercial planes, parts, amid national security probe on imports
Delta urges government not to impose new tariffs in comment submitted in connection with federal probe into the national security impact of commercial plane, jet engine and part imports.
Job growth continued to slow in May amid economic uncertainty
The Labor Department reported that the U.S. economy added 139,000 jobs in May, as employers slowed the pace of hiring amid uncertainty over economic conditions and policies.
German chancellor hopes US will bring down tariffs, says 'best thing for mutual wealth' is open markets
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is pushing for a trade agreement between the European Commission and the U.S. that brings down the tariffs that are threatening his community.
Airline, aerospace industries warn Trump tariffs could risk air safety, supply chains
Airline and aerospace groups warned that President Donald Trump’s tariffs on planes, engines and parts could increase ticket prices, harm the supply chain and threaten aviation safety.
Meat prices stay high as cattle numbers hit lowest level since 1950s
Beef prices stay high as U.S. cattle hits record low. Omaha Steaks CEO says relief may not come until 2026, despite herd rebuilding and trade efforts.
Trump’s 50% tariffs on imported steel, aluminum take effect
President Donald Trump's 50% tariffs on most imported steel and aluminum went into effect on Wednesday, an increase from previous 25% rate that had been in place.
US economic growth forecast cut sharply due to higher tariffs
The OECD's forecast projects a slowdown in U.S. economic growth due to tariffs, with GDP growth at 1.5% in 2026 and inflation reaching 3.9% by the end of 2025.
Trump admin seeks countries' best offers ahead of tariff deadline
As Trump's tariff deadline nears, the U.S. is seeking trade proposals from global partners, including the EU and Japan, focused on industrial and agricultural products.
Commerce Secretary Lutnick outlines fast pace for U.S.-India trade talks under Trump’s tariff approach
Trump supports tariffs to balance U.S.-India trade, with Lutnick urging early cooperation and reasonable market access to reduce the trade deficit.
China accuses US of undermining trade agreement
China accused the U.S. of undermining a trade deal, while President Donald Trump has accused China of violating the deal, less than a month since the two countries reached the agreement
Trump warns court ruling against tariffs could lead to 'economic ruination' of US
President Donald Trump warns of economic ruination if courts rule against his tariffs after the U.S. Court of International Trade blocks emergency import taxes.
Dame's Trump tariff surcharge about 'transparency,' not 'politics,' CEO says
Dame Products found itself at the center of a political controversy after adding a "Trump Tariff Surcharge" to customers' carts, but the CEO insists it had nothing to do with picking sides.
Trump says Pakistani officials visiting US to negotiate trade deal ahead of potential 29% tariff
President Donald Trump said Pakistani officials are visiting the U.S. next week in an effort to reach a deal to lower tariffs.
Jamie Dimon identifies 'most important' focus for Trump team amid global 'tectonic' shifts
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon evaluates the importance of maintaining military and economic alliances amid shifting geopolitical "tectonic plates."
Trump doubles steel tariffs to 50% in bid to boost US industry
While in Pittsburgh, President Donald Trump revealed a tariff increase on steel from 25% to 50% while discussing a deal with Nippon Steel.
LARRY KUDLOW: Protecting Trump's golden age
Activist judges and the Fed can try to derail Trump's economic Golden Age all they want, but he'll just keep on fighting. Just like Reagan did.
Best Buy lowers revenue outlook for Fiscal Year 2026 due to tariffs
Best Buy adjusted its full year sales forecast amid tariff impacts, with revenue now projected between $41.1 billion and $41.9 billion for Fiscal Year 2026.
GM CEO backs Trump's auto tariffs as a tool to help US manufacturers
General Motors CEO Mary Barra said the automaker is increasing its U.S. investment and that Trump's tariffs are a "tool that the administration can use to level the playing field."
Popular home decor retailer prepares to file for bankruptcy: report
At Home Group Inc. is reportedly set to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy amid liquidity issues and tariff pressures, seeking new suppliers to mitigate financial challenges.