Mar 4 • 11:01 UTC 🇦🇷 Argentina Clarin (ES)

What are tariffs: a guide to understanding how the main tool of Trump's government was declared illegal by the Supreme Court

The U.S. Supreme Court has declared illegal the tariffs imposed by Donald Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, jeopardizing his economic strategy that relied heavily on these measures.

Since Donald Trump's return to the White House in January 2025, he has promoted reciprocal tariffs as a core tenet of his economic policy, announcing new taxes on goods imported from all countries in April of the previous year. He has defended these tariffs vigorously, suggesting they would fund refunds or stimulus checks for Americans. However, the recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that invalidated the tariffs established under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 represents a significant setback for Trump's economic agenda.

The Supreme Court's ruling effectively nullifies the tariffs that varied from country to country based on negotiations with the White House. This decision not only impacts the tariffs' collection but also raises questions about the government's broader economic strategies under Trump's administration. By striking down these measures, the Court highlights the checks and balances inherent in the U.S. political system, emphasizing the limitations imposed on executive power regarding trade policies.

Following the Court's decision, Trump has continued to express his commitment to these tariffs, using his social media platform Truth to announce intentions to challenge the ruling. This ongoing tension illustrates the complexities of U.S. trade politics and the implications for international relations, as Trump's tariffs were intended to reshape trade dynamics significantly. As the political landscape evolves, the future of U.S. tariffs and their global repercussions remains uncertain.

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