Global leaders and businesses react to more U.S. tariff swings - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Times staff and wire reports

February 21, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Global leaders and businesses are grappling with the implications of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that invalidated most of President Trump’s tariffs. In response, Trump introduced new import taxes, creating uncertainty for international trade relationships. This decision has sparked concerns across regions like South Korea, Mexico, and South America, as governments and companies scramble to assess the impact on their exports. The court struck down Trump’s tariffs, but some products, such as automobiles and steel, remain unaffected by the ruling. However, new tariffs imposed under an executive order could now apply broadly. Trump escalated tensions by increasing these tariffs from 10% to 15%. In Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron praised the U.S. system of checks and balances while cautioning against triumphalism. Meanwhile, Mexico’s economy secretary urged calm and planned a visit to the U.S. to clarify the situation. The ruling also invalidated Trump-era tariffs aimed at combating fentanyl trafficking, including those on Mexico, China, and Canada. Mexico’s exports, which are mostly protected under the USMCA, remain largely unaffected. However, the new tariffs could still impact certain products, leading businesses like Sergio Bermúdez in Juarez to analyze potential effects on their export-reliant economy. The ongoing tariff fluctuations highlight the unpredictability of U.S. trade policies, leaving global leaders and businesses cautious. This situation underscores the challenges posed by shifting trade measures and the need for adaptability in international relations.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/21/2026