Trump tariffs ruling met with cautious welcome from business owners

The US Supreme Court struck down tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, and business owners expressed cautious relief while noting uncertainty about refunds and other tariff powers the administration may use.

The US Supreme Court struck down tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Business owners greeted the decision with cautious relief while expressing concern about refunds for tariffs already paid. The White House said it may use other tariff authorities and the president indicated plans for a separate executive order. Key points: - The ruling applies to duties imposed under the 1977 IEEPA statute. - Questions remain about how importers will obtain refunds for tariffs already paid, and the president said related disputes could be tied up in court for years. - Officials signalled alternative tariff powers could be used, and the president mentioned a planned executive order for a separate 10% global tariff. Summary: The decision removes one legal basis for recent global tariffs and prompted cautious optimism from small businesses and trade groups. Many firms still face elevated effective tariff rates and uncertainty over rebate procedures. Legal and administrative actions, including court cases over refunds and possible new tariff orders, are likely to determine outcomes going forward.