From Foreign Policy · Keith Johnson · · 1m 40s
Trump Tariffs Likely to Fail in Court
Trump’s global tariffs face legal defeat again as courts reject his trade policies.
In brief
Trump’s global tariffs face legal defeat again as courts reject his trade policies. Trump’s third attempt to impose global tariffs will likely be struck down by the U.S. Court of International Trade, following two prior rulings. Originally reported by Foreign Policy.
Trump’s Tariffs Face Legal Challenge
U.S. President Donald Trump’s third tariff attempt faces court challenge after two prior rulings.
Tariffs Target 59 Countries
Tariffs of 10-12.5 percent apply to 59 countries and the European Union over forced labor claims.
Section 301 Tariff Authority
Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act allows tariffs on specific countries burdening U.S. commerce.
Legal Foundation Weakens
Tariffs rest on sturdier legal ground than past attempts but will likely be struck down.
Trade Experts’ View
Experts say tariffs are a pretext for reimposing IEEPA tariffs under forced labor claims.
Section 301’s Purpose
Section 301 was designed for specific trade negotiations, not global tariffs.
Historical Context
Trump’s administration has used Section 301 twice before, each time facing legal challenges.
Trade Deficit Unchanged
Tariffs have not reduced the U.S. trade deficit, which grew despite the tariffs.
Interest Rates Rise
Tariffs contributed to U.S. Federal Reserve raising interest rates for the first time in three years.
Next Tariff Round
Trump’s administration plans new tariffs on Canadian goods under a different trade authority.
Court Ruling Timeline
The court will rule on the latest challenge after oral arguments this week.
Consequence
Tariffs may continue to face legal challenges while raising costs for businesses and consumers.
The key point
Trump’s third attempt to impose global tariffs will likely be struck down by the U.S. Court of International Trade, following two prior rulings.
