A federal appeals court has fast-tracked a case that could unlock over USD 130 billion in refunds for importers affected by Trump's invalidated emergency tariffs. The decision bypasses the administration's request for delay, as thousands of companies pursue compensation through what may become a streamlined claims process.
A US federal appeals court has accelerated the legal process that could determine how over USD 130 billion will be refunded to importers following the Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate President Trump’s tariffs.
On Monday, 2 March 2026, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit granted the importers’ request to send the case back to the U.S. Court of International Trade. The Trump administration had opposed this move, requesting a four-month delay to evaluate its options.
The Supreme Court struck down Trump’s tariffs on 20 February 2025, which had been imposed under an economic emergency law. More than 300,000 importers paid these tariffs, but the court provided no guidance on the refund process. President Trump warned the litigation could extend up to five years.
Approximately 2,000 importers, including major corporations like FedEx, have filed lawsuits seeking refunds. Smaller importers are hoping customs officials will establish a straightforward, affordable refund mechanism. Importers have requested that the trade court order the government to begin developing a refund process immediately.
Earlier, the Supreme Court invalidated tariffs of 10% to 50% imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, affecting President Donald Trump’s reciprocal and fentanyl-related duties. However, other tariffs introduced under separate legal authorities remain in place.
Following the ruling, Trump announced a temporary 10% global import duty for 150 days and instructed the Office of the United States Trade Representative to initiate new Section 301 investigations.
