A US federal appeals court has ruled that most tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump were unlawful, striking at the core of his trade agenda. In a 7–4 decision, the court said Trump exceeded his powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The law gives presidents broad emergency authority, but it does not authorise tariffs or taxes. By using IEEPA to impose new duties, judges ruled, Trump acted beyond the authority granted by Congress.
Why the Court Declared Trump Tariffs Illegal
The decision struck down two sets of tariffs: the reciprocal duties that Trump announced in April and additional tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico. The court stated that only Congress can impose tariffs, making the Trump tariffs illegal under existing law.
Tariffs imposed under other statutes, including those on steel and aluminium, remain in place and were not affected by this ruling.
Impact of the Ruling
The verdict declaring Trump tariffs illegal could have long-term consequences for US trade law. It weakens the tariff-heavy strategy Trump used to pressure trading partners and may restrict how future presidents deploy emergency powers in economic disputes.
Legal experts say the case is likely headed to the Supreme Court, which could issue a landmark decision on the limits of presidential authority over trade.
