Trump appeals to US Supreme Court to rule on legality of tariffs

September 4, 2025

President Donald Trump has appealed to the US Supreme Court to reverse a lower court ruling that deemed many of his sweeping tariffs illegal. A divided Federal Circuit Court ruled 7-4 that tariffs imposed through emergency economic powers exceeded presidential authority and infringed on Congress's core power to set levies. The case could potentially force the US to refund billions in tariffs and significantly impact Trump's economic and foreign policy agenda.

Who is affected

Small businesses challenging the tariffs
US states in the coalition opposing the tariffs
More than 90 countries subject to the baseline 10% and "reciprocal" tariffs
Canada, Mexico, and China, specifically targeted with tariffs intended to stop drug importation
US importers who might be eligible for tariff refunds if the ruling stands

What action is being taken

The Trump administration is appealing to the Supreme Court to intervene
The administration is arguing that the lower court's decision disrupts ongoing diplomatic trade negotiations
The appellate court has postponed its decision from taking effect during the appeal process
Liberty Justice Center is representing small businesses challenging the tariffs

Why it matters

The case could upend Trump's economic and foreign policy agenda
The US might have to refund billions in tariffs if the ruling stands
The outcome will determine whether the president has authority to impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act
According to the administration, the ruling has disrupted "highly impactful, sensitive, ongoing diplomatic trade negotiations"
Small businesses claim the tariffs are causing "serious harm" and "jeopardising their survival"

What's next

If the Supreme Court denies review, the ruling could take effect on October 14

Read full article from source: BBC