Top American business associations are demanding repayment for tariffs imposed under Donald Trump after the Supreme Court ruled that the former president exceeded his authority. The National Retail Federation, representing retailers from Walmart to small brands, called for "a seamless process to refund the tariffs to US importers", stating that refunds would serve as an economic boost.
The US Chamber of Commerce urged swift return of an estimated $133bn in collected tariffs covered by the ruling. Its chief policy officer, Neil Bradley, said: "Swift refunds of the impermissible tariffs will be meaningful for the more than 200,000 small business importers in this country and will help support stronger economic growth this year."
However, the Supreme Court did not address the issue of repayment, leaving lower courts to decide. Dan Anthony of the business coalition We Pay the Tariffs highlighted the hardship on small businesses, which have taken out loans, delayed hiring, and cancelled expansion plans. "Full, fast automatic refunds is really where our focus is going to be," he said.
Refunds are likely to face delays. President Trump has attempted to reintroduce 10% tariffs via a different law, and trade attorney Greg Husisian noted that the Court of International Trade will need to determine whether blanket relief is possible. Customs and Border Protection is expected to hold onto collected tariffs until a final, unappealable ruling, which could take years.
