From IEEPA to Section 122: Strategic Implications for Asia–US Trade
From IEEPA to Section 122: Strategic Implications for Asia–US Trade 1️⃣ Policy Reset: From Emergency Powers to Structured Tariffs The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to strike down reciprocal tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) marks a significant shift in trade policy execution. In response, the administration has: Replaced country-specific IEEPA tariffs with a uniform 15% tariff under Section 122 Increased the rate from the initially proposed 10% Exempted approximately 1,100 product categories Left Section 232 tariffs (steel, aluminium, autos, etc.) unchanged What This Means The move transitions U.S. trade policy from discretionary emergency measures to a more standardized tariff structure. This reduces uncertainty and improves visibility for exporters and investors. 2️⃣ Overall Impact on Asia: Broad-Based Relief The shift to a flat 15% tariff results in net effective tariff reductions for most Asian economies , especially t...