The US Supreme Court has struck down former President Donald Trump’s sweeping global tariffs in a landmark ruling, saying he exceeded his authority by using an emergency law not meant for trade measures.
According to Reuters, the 6-to-3 decision marks a major setback for Trump’s trade policy and could reshape how far US presidents can go in imposing tariffs without congressional approval.
The ruling makes it clear that tariff powers primarily rest with Congress, not the president. Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, said the law used by Trump does not authorize the imposition of tariffs.
The court ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act cannot be used to regulate imports in the way Trump attempted.
The decision comes amid ongoing global trade tensions triggered by Trump’s aggressive tariff policies, which have impacted financial markets and strained relations with key trading partners.
Tariffs had been a central tool of his economic strategy, aimed at reducing trade deficits and pressuring other countries into new trade agreements.
Following the ruling, Trump strongly criticized the court and announced plans to impose a new 10 percent global tariff using alternative legal authority.
Officials indicated that other mechanisms, including national security-related laws, could be used to maintain tariff pressure on trading partners.
The ruling is expected to create uncertainty in global markets, as investors assess the impact of potential policy shifts. Business groups have welcomed the decision but warned that ongoing legal and policy changes could prolong uncertainty.
The case also highlights broader debates over executive authority in the US, particularly as Trump had expanded presidential powers across multiple areas since returning to office. The court emphasized that major economic decisions with a wide impact must have clear approval from Congress.
Analysts say the decision could ease inflationary pressures if tariffs are reduced, but the long-term impact will depend on how the administration restructures its trade policy going forward
