US Appeals Court Rules Most Trump Tariffs Are Unlawful
A US federal appeals court has ruled that most tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump are unlawful, citing that he exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
The court’s decision was made on August 29, 2025, and it applies to Trump’s tariffs imposed in April and February, targeting countries such as China, Canada, and Mexico. The court determined that the IEEPA does not grant the president the power to impose import taxes or tariffs, as this authority rests with Congress.
The ruling emphasizes that the Constitution grants the legislative branch the power to impose taxes, including tariffs. Although the tariffs remain in place for now, the court’s decision has set the stage for a legal battle that could reach the Supreme Court .
The Trump administration immediately appealed the decision, defending the president’s powers to impose import taxes using the economic emergency law.
White House spokesman Kush Desai stated that President Trump lawfully exercised the tariff powers granted to him by Congress to defend national and economic security from foreign threats. Trump himself criticized the decision, labeling it “highly partisan” and warning that removing the tariffs would lead to a “total disaster” for the country.
The ruling is expected to have widespread consequences, both domestically and internationally. It raises uncertainties regarding Trump’s tariff strategy, particularly as negotiations with multiple international trading partners, including the European Union and China, are ongoing.
The decision also has implications for countries like India, which is factoring in the impact of cumulative 50% tariffs and looking at policy measures to combat its long-term effects
The court’s decision does not affect tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, which were imposed under a different law. The delayed implementation of the court’s order until October 14 gives the Trump administration time to seek relief from the Supreme Court. #US Appeals Court Rules Most Trump Tariffs Are Unlawful#
