Appeals Court Temporarily Reinstates Trump’s IEEPA Tariffs
To Our Valued Partners
On May 28, 2025, the United States Court of International Trade (USCIT) issued a landmark ruling blocking key tariffs enacted by President Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The court found these tariffs exceed presidential authority and ordered them rescinded within 10 calendar days, by June 7, 2025.
The decision effects:
- 30% tariffs on Chinese imports (IEEPA Reciprocal)
- 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods (with exceptions)
- 10% global “universal” tariffs on nearly all imports (excluding USMCA-origin goods)
It does not affect:
- Section 232 tariffs on steel, aluminum, autos, and auto parts
- Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods from prior administrations
🔗 Full Court Decision – Case No. 25-66 (49 pages)
But just one day later, on May 29, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit issued an administrative stay, which temporarily reinstates the IEEPA tariffs while the appeal is underway. An administrative stay is a short-term legal pause that keeps the current rules in place while the court reviews whether to block or allow the injunction.
🔗 Federal Appeals Court Order – Stay Granted 5/29/2025
⚖️ Current Legal Status (as of May 29, 2025)
- The USCIT ordered the removal of IEEPA tariffs by June 7.
- The U.S. Government filed an appeal on May 28.
- On May 29, the Federal Circuit granted a temporary stay, keeping the IEEPA tariffs in effect for now.
- This stay is not a final decision. It only holds the USCIT ruling while the court considers whether to issue a full stay.
⏳ What Happens Next?
- Plaintiffs must respond to the appeals court by June 5.
- The U.S. Government must reply by June 9.
- A decision on whether a longer stay will be granted is expected soon after.
- If no long-term stay is issued, the injunction could take effect and halt the tariffs.
- A Supreme Court challenge remains possible but not immediate.
❗ What You Should Keep in Mind Right Now
We know this update raises more questions than answers, so here’s what we recommend while things are still unfolding:
❌ Don’t assume tariffs are canceled. IEEPA tariffs have been reinstated temporarily and must still be paid.
❌ Hold off on filing for refunds for now. If the ruling is overturned, then refunds issued too early might have to be paid back.
❌ Avoid making sudden sourcing or pricing decisions based solely on this ruling—it’s still in legal limbo.
❌ Be cautious with what you hear online or from unofficial sources. When in doubt, reach out—we’re here to clarify.
✅ Keep clear records by entry and tariff type. If refund opportunities do open up, this documentation will be essential.
If you’re unsure about your next step, let’s talk through it. You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’ve got your back.
📌 We’ll Keep You Updated
This is an active and evolving legal matter. We’re closely monitoring the case and will keep you informed of:
- The outcome of the motion for full stay (separate from the current administrative stay, which is a short-term pause temporarily reinstating the tariffs until the court decides whether a longer stay is justified)
- Any changes to the status of IEEPA tariffs
- Ongoing legal risks and compliance guidance
If you have questions about your specific shipments or compliance status, feel free to contact me at 833-782-7628 Ext. 1.
