Cambodia Notes U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on Trump Tariffs

By Leng Deth

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 5, 2026 (KPT) – Deputy Prime Minister Sun Chanthol said Tuesday the U.S. Supreme Court has struck down tariffs signed by President Donald Trump in April 2025, removing a 19 percent duty previously applied under a Cambodia–U.S. trade arrangement.

Speaking in Phnom Penh, Chanthol, also First Vice Chairman of the Council for the Development of Cambodia, noted the U.S. president retains authority under Section 122 of the 1974 Trade Act to impose tariffs of up to 15 percent for 150 days on all countries.

He warned that after that period, Washington could invoke other provisions such as Section 301, 232 or 338 to reintroduce duties. “We do not know which section he may use after 150 days,” Chanthol said, adding Cambodia hopes rates will not exceed 19 percent to remain competitive with neighbors.

On Feb. 20, the Supreme Court ruled Trump’s earlier tariffs unlawful under emergency economic powers. Trump responded by threatening new duties of up to 15 percent, but when enacted on Feb. 24, the rate was set at 10 percent on all imports.

U.S. officials later indicated plans to raise tariffs to 15 percent on selected countries, without specifying which. The new 10 percent duty was imposed under the 1974 Trade Act, which allows a maximum of 15 percent for 150 days before requiring congressional approval.