US Supreme Court rules Trump’s tariffs unlawful
World
The US Supreme Court has ruled that unilateral tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump under emergency economic powers were unlawful. The Court found that the president exceeded his authority by using legislation intended for national emergencies to implement broad trade measures.
The decision was adopted by a 6–3 vote. Chief Justice John Roberts stated that such sweeping tariff powers require clear authorization from Congress. The 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant the president unlimited authority to impose tariffs in terms of scope or duration.
The case concerns “reciprocal” tariffs introduced in April 2025 against most US trading partners, as well as separate measures targeting China, Canada, and Mexico.
The ruling followed three consolidated lawsuits filed by the toy manufacturer Learning Resources, the Liberty Justice Center on behalf of small businesses, and a coalition of 12 US states. Lower courts had previously determined that Trump exceeded his authority.
According to Reuters, the ruling marks one of the most significant legal setbacks for Trump’s administration. However, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other officials have indicated that alternative legal grounds may be pursued to preserve parts of the tariff regime.
The case concerns “reciprocal” tariffs introduced in April 2025 against most US trading partners, as well as separate measures targeting China, Canada, and Mexico.
The ruling followed three consolidated lawsuits filed by the toy manufacturer Learning Resources, the Liberty Justice Center on behalf of small businesses, and a coalition of 12 US states. Lower courts had previously determined that Trump exceeded his authority.
According to Reuters, the ruling marks one of the most significant legal setbacks for Trump’s administration. However, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other officials have indicated that alternative legal grounds may be pursued to preserve parts of the tariff regime.
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