Government/Policy
February 9, 2026
Trump signs order paving way for tariffs on nations dealing with Iran
Written by Ethan Bernard
President Trump signed an Executive Order (EO) on Feb. 6, allowing the administration to impose tariffs on countries that do business with Iran.
The EO gave the example of a 25% ad valorem tariff that “may be imposed on goods imported into the United States that are products of any country that directly or indirectly purchases, imports, or otherwise acquires any goods or services from Iran.”
However, no exact amount has been specified yet, and no countries have been named as of the writing of this article. The order was effective at 12:01 a.m. ET on Feb. 7.
A fact sheet issued by the White House, also on Feb. 6, said the president could modify the order if circumstances change. This could be in response to retaliation, or if “Iran or an affected country takes significant steps to address the national emergency and align with the United States on national security, foreign policy, and economic matters.”
The White House provided its reasoning behind the order. The fact sheet states the president is holding Iran accountable for its pursuit of nuclear capabilities and support for terrorism. These threaten regional destabilization that could “endanger American security, allies, and interests.”
Further, the fact sheet says the order authorizes the US Secretary of State, the Secretary of Commerce, and the US Trade Representative to “take all necessary actions, including issuing rules and guidance, to implement the tariff system and related measures.”
We will be monitoring this situation as it develops, with any implications for the trade of steel and raw materials.
