U.S. Court Blocks Trump Tariffs. Landmark Ruling Reshapes Trade Policy

In a landmark decision, the U.S. Court of International Trade in New York struck down most of the tariffs introduced by Donald Trump earlier this year, ruling they exceeded presidential authority. According to the three-judge panel, only Congress can regulate foreign trade – a power Trump bypassed by invoking emergency provisions under the IEEPA law.
The ruling excludes sector-specific tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles but impacts wide-ranging duties. Markets reacted swiftly: the dollar strengthened, and stock indices rose across Asia and Wall Street.
The White House announced it would appeal, arguing trade deficits pose a national threat and defending the president’s right to act. The case was brought by small importers and 12 U.S. states, which claimed that the tariffs hurt their businesses and distorted pricing.
Experts warn the ruling could weaken U.S. leverage in trade talks. Still, it marks a turning point in reaffirming Congress’s constitutional role in shaping trade policy.