There are other means available…
- Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974
- Allows the President to impose temporary import surcharges or adjust imports when there is a large and serious U.S. balance of payments deficit.
- Section 201 of the Trade Act of 1974
- Also known as a “safeguard” measure, it allows for temporary import restrictions if a surge in imports causes or threatens serious injury to a domestic industry.
- Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962
- Grants the President authority to restrict imports for national security reasons. This was notably used in recent years for tariffs on steel and aluminum.
- Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974
- Enables the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to investigate and respond to unfair foreign trade practices, such as violations of trade agreements or discriminatory practices.
Each of these sections provides a legal mechanism for the executive branch to unilaterally adjust U.S. trade policy, often without needing congressional approval.