Washington, D.C., August 2025 – In a major legal development, a U.S. federal appeals court has ruled that most of former President Donald Trump’s global tariffs were unlawful, dealing a significant blow to one of his most aggressive trade policies. The decision marks a pivotal moment in the debate over presidential powers in international trade.
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| U.S. Court Rules Trump’s Global Tariffs Illegal |
Court Ruling: Trump Exceeded His Authority
The court found that Trump exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The IEEPA allows presidents to regulate certain economic activities in national emergencies, but the judges concluded it does not explicitly grant authority to impose tariffs, which has historically been the role of Congress.
The panel stressed that Trump’s tariffs were:
Broad in scope – targeting multiple countries and sectors.
Without clear time limits – effectively making them indefinite.
This lack of boundaries, the court ruled, made the tariffs unlawful.
Tariffs Remain in Effect — For Now
Although the ruling is a major setback for Trump, the court stayed enforcement until October 14, 2025. This gives the Trump administration time to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, where the case could set a precedent on the limits of executive authority in trade policy.
Until then, the tariffs remain in force.
Trump reacted strongly, calling the ruling a “total disaster for the country”, and reaffirmed his commitment to keeping the tariffs in place.
India Hit Hard by Trump’s Tariff Push
Among the most significant recent moves was Trump’s decision to impose a 50% tariff on goods from India, particularly targeting:
India’s oil imports from Russia
This has put severe pressure on the Indian economy. In response, the Indian government announced:
Tax relief measures for industries most affected
A renewed push for domestic self-reliance in energy and defense
The steep tariffs have created both diplomatic and economic strain, highlighting the global ripple effects of Trump’s trade actions.
Broader Context: Trump’s Executive Actions
While tariffs are at the center of this ruling, Trump has also used unconventional executive mechanisms in other areas, including:
Canceling foreign aid packages unilaterally
These moves remain controversial but are separate from the tariff dispute.
What Happens Next?
If the court rules in Trump’s favor, it could expand presidential authority under emergency powers, reshaping U.S. trade law.
FAQ's
Q1: What did the court rule about Trump’s tariffs?
The appeals court ruled that Trump’s tariffs exceeded his authority under IEEPA because the law does not grant presidents explicit tariff powers.
Q2: Are the tariffs still in effect?
Yes. The ruling is stayed until October 14, 2025, allowing Trump’s administration to appeal to the Supreme Court.
Q3: Which country was most recently targeted by Trump’s tariffs?
India was hit with a 50% tariff, especially on oil and military imports linked to Russia.
Q4: How has India responded to the tariffs?
India has rolled out tax relief measures and emphasized domestic self-reliance in critical sectors.
Q5: What happens if the Supreme Court overturns the ruling?
If overturned, Trump’s tariffs remain legal and in force. If upheld, most of them will be struck down.
