US Court Rules Trump's Tariff Policy Unconstitutional, Issues Harsh Criticism

  • 29/05/2025

Washington: Former US President Donald Trump has faced a significant legal setback as a US court declared his tariff policy unconstitutional. The US Court of International Trade in Manhattan issued a strong rebuke, stating that Trump's decision to unilaterally impose steep tariffs on several countries exceeded the powers granted to the presidency by law.

The court emphasized that the authority to implement such measures lies with the US Congress and not the president alone. It specifically cited that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 does not permit unlimited presidential control over tariff decisions.

Trump had announced the imposition of tariffs on April 2, targeting several countries. The US levied a 27% tariff on India, 34% on China, 20% on the European Union, 10% on the UK, and 24% on Japan. These measures were temporarily frozen amid international backlash and legal scrutiny.

Trump’s administration had particularly targeted China, with tariffs reaching as high as 145%. However, following negotiations, both countries agreed to reduce tariffs—China brought its tariffs down from 125% to 10%, while the US agreed to lower its rate to 30%.

China strongly opposed the original tariffs, accusing the US of violating international trade rules and basic economic principles. In response, China imposed retaliatory tariffs on American products.

The court ruling marks a key moment in the ongoing debate over the limits of presidential power in trade policy and underscores the importance of legislative oversight in matters affecting the global economy.

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