Trump’s Tariffs Back on—for Now

On 29 May, an American federal appeals court reinstated a key set of President Trump’s sweeping new tariffs, granting the president a short-term legal win. But the decision is far from final.

The ruling doesn’t settle the issue, it simply pauses earlier court decisions that rejected Trump’s authority to impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

That law, typically used for sanctions and financial restrictions, has never before been successfully used to justify broad-based tariffs. Now, judges must decide whether it can.

With the case likely to drag on and a potential Supreme Court review on the cards, the legal status of the tariffs remains uncertain, with US importers facing months of unpredictability over pricing, compliance, and risk.

A Legal Power Play with Global Consequences
While the tariffs remain in place for now, the broader legal and political battle is heating up. Even if Trump’s current approach is ultimately ruled unlawful, the administration is expected to pursue alternative legal options. These include:

• Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act, already used to target China and likely to be expanded further.
• Short-term tariffs of up to 15% under a separate clause of the same Act.
• Renewed use of Section 232, which has already imposed duties on steel, aluminium, and autos.

Each pathway carries unique timelines, investigation requirements, and political ramifications. What’s clear is that tariffs, once a marginal tool, are now firmly embedded in US trade strategy, regardless of who occupies the White House.

For importers affected by the current tariffs, the stakes are high. If the levies are eventually ruled unlawful, companies that paid them could be entitled to substantial refunds. However, the federal government is likely to delay issuing any repayments until the legal disputes are fully resolved.

While the temporary reinstatement of the tariffs provides the Trump administration with a short-term win, the broader legal and political battle over presidential tariff powers is far from over.

At PSP Worldwide Logistics, we help you anticipate, adapt, and stay compliant, no matter how trade policy shifts.

EMAIL Colin Redman today to assess your exposure and build a tariff-proof freight strategy.