Trump defies court ruling, says tariffs continue despite being declared illegal

A US federal appeals court has ruled that most of Donald Trump’s global tariffs were imposed illegally, saying he exceeded his authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

The Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld earlier rulings by the Court of International Trade that found the duties unlawful.

The 7–4 decision struck down broad categories of tariffs, including those tied to global imports and those justified on drug trafficking and immigration grounds.

However, the judges allowed the tariffs to remain in effect until October 14, granting time for an appeal to the Supreme Court.

Trump responded to the ruling by insisting the tariffs are “still in effect” and warned of economic consequences if they were removed.

He described the decision as “highly partisan” and said the duties were essential for protecting American jobs and manufacturers.

Tariffs introduced under other laws, such as duties on steel, aluminum, and automobiles imposed under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, remain unaffected by the ruling.

Analysts noted that the case could reshape presidential authority over trade policy and expose the government to billions of dollars in refund claims if the Supreme Court upholds the lower court’s finding.