USTR Greer Backs 10% Duty to Preserve US Tariff Continuity

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has defended the administration’s latest trade measures, asserting that Washington’s tariff strategy remains intact even after the US Supreme Court limited the use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). His remarks came hours after President Donald Trump announced a temporary ad valorem 10% import duty for 150 days.

Greer emphasized that the ruling affects only a narrow aspect of the administration’s broader efforts to recalibrate the global trading framework in favour of American workers and businesses. He described earlier IEEPA-linked tariffs as “necessary and appropriate,” citing external challenges such as fentanyl trafficking, illegal immigration, and trade imbalances. Highlighting fentanyl as a critical concern, Greer argued that tariff pressure had prompted China, Mexico, and Canada to strengthen controls on the flow of the drug and its precursors. He also pointed to Mexico’s enhanced border security measures as evidence of policy impact.

On trade, Greer claimed that the US goods trade deficit, which he said expanded significantly in previous years, has begun to moderate. According to his statement, the deficit recorded a noticeable decline during much of 2025.

The comments signal the administration’s intent to continue leveraging tariff tools alongside ongoing Section 301 and Section 232 investigations, reinforcing trade enforcement as a central pillar of US economic policy.