Trade Turbulence: Trump’s Tariffs Revived as Legal Battle Heats Up
In a rollercoaster week for U.S. trade policy, a federal appeals court has temporarily revived Trump-era tariffs, following a lower court ruling that struck them down as unconstitutional. The legal uncertainty has left American businesses, lawmakers, and global partners scrambling for answers.
The tariffs—first imposed in 2020 under the banner of “Liberation Day”—targeted imports from key trading partners and were justified using the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The Court of International Trade, however, ruled on May 28 that the statute does not authorize such sweeping trade actions.
Yet, just 24 hours later, the U.S. Court of Appeals issued a stay, allowing the tariffs to remain active during the appeal process. Legal teams have until early June to submit arguments, setting up a contentious and closely watched judicial proceeding.
Sectors dependent on imported materials find themselves entangled in the ongoing turmoil. Small business owners have reported increased operational costs, while large corporations warn of supply chain disruptions.
International reaction has been swift. Foreign governments have criticized the U.S. for backtracking on fair trade commitments, urging a resolution that respects global norms and domestic law.
As the legal gears turn, the case has become a symbol of deeper political and economic tensions over how America engages with the global economy—and who gets to make those decisions.
