President Trump suggests companies forgoing Supreme Court-mandated tariff refunds will be rewarded, as the USD 166 billion refund portal opens amid legal uncertainty. Major retailers, including Apple and Amazon, have yet to file claims, while alternative tariffs are planned for July.
President Donald Trump said he will take note of companies that choose not to claim refunds on tariffs recently ruled illegal by the Supreme Court, hinting at potential future benefits for those who abstain.
Speaking to CNBC on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, Trump praised reports that major corporations, including Apple, Amazon, Target, and Walmart, have yet to file refund claims through the newly launched government portal.
“If they don’t do that, I’ll remember them. I will tell you that, because I’m looking to make this country strong,” the president stated.Â
The refunds stem from approximately $166 billion in tariffs collected under Trump’s use of the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act. The Supreme Court struck down these tariffs in February, ruling the president had overstepped his authority.
The US Customs and Border Protection agency launched its electronic refund system, called CAPE, on Monday to process claims from importers. However, Judge Richard Eaton of the U.S. Court of International Trade issued a temporary stay on Tuesday, requesting a progress report by 28 April 2026.
Despite the stay, the portal continues accepting submissions. Actual refund payments are expected 60 to 90 days after approval.
While Apple, Amazon, Target, and Walmart have not joined lawsuits to preserve refund rights, other major companies, including Costco, FedEx, and Mondelez, have taken legal action. Trade experts suggest some firms are maintaining a low profile to avoid presidential criticism. Apple previously disclosed that tariffs cost the company USD 3.3 billion last year.
The president told CNBC his administration is preparing alternative tariffs under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which addresses unfair trade practices. These new tariffs require investigations and public comment periods, with implementation expected in July.
The Trump administration faces a 7 June deadline to appeal the court ruling requiring refunds.
