US President Donald Trump has imposed new global import tariffs of 10%, instead of the 15% announced over the weekend, the Financial Times reports, citing a respective notice from the US Customs and Border Protection service.

The tariffs came into effect on Tuesday at 12:01 am Eastern Time.

US Customs and Border Protection has informed importers that in the first phase, the tariff rate will be 10% and will apply to all countries for 150 days, unless exceptions are made, NBC News reports.

The White House confirmed the news, saying the Trump administration is working to raise tariffs to 15%, but that would require a separate executive order.

Announcing the 10% tariffs on Friday, the White House said the measures would not apply to a wide range of goods, including those from Canada and Mexico.

Washington's policy shift has alarmed trading partners across the Atlantic who have separate trade agreements with it. However, the current pause until raising tariffs to 15% could enable countries and businesses to secure exemptions and privileges.