Shipping giant FedEx has filed a lawsuit against the federal government demanding repayment of tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. The Supreme Court recently struck down these trade taxes as unconstitutional, opening the door for businesses to recover billions in payments.
Shipping giant FedEx has filed a federal lawsuit demanding the U.S. government return money the company paid in tariffs during former President Donald Trump’s administration, following a Supreme Court decision that declared these trade taxes unconstitutional.
In court documents submitted to the U.S. Court of International Trade, FedEx claims the company has “suffered injury” from paying these tariffs and is asking the court to provide relief for these financial damages.
FedEx joins a growing list of major American businesses pursuing reimbursement for the now-illegal tariffs, with retail giants Costco and cosmetics company Revlon among those already taking legal action.
The National Retail Federation released a statement Friday expressing support for the Supreme Court’s decision, saying it brings clarity for American businesses and manufacturers.
“We urge the lower court to ensure a seamless process to refund the tariffs to U.S. importers,” the organization stated. “The refunds will serve as an economic boost and allow companies to reinvest in their operations, their employees and their customers.”
On Friday, the Supreme Court overturned former President Trump’s extensive international tariffs in a decisive ruling. Trump responded with harsh criticism of the justices, saying he was “absolutely ashamed” of some who voted in the 6-3 decision against him, labeling them “disloyal to our Constitution” and “lapdogs.” He also suggested foreign interference without providing any supporting evidence.
The high court determined that tariffs Trump enacted using emergency authority were unconstitutional, including broad “reciprocal” trade taxes applied to almost all other nations.
Government data reveals the Treasury Department collected over $133 billion from these import taxes imposed under emergency powers through December. Economists project the economic impact could reach approximately $3 trillion over the coming decade.
Trump has indicated plans to pursue tariffs through alternative methods. Following Friday’s Supreme Court defeat, he immediately turned to a temporary solution: Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 permits presidential tariffs up to 15% for a maximum of 150 days. However, any extension beyond that timeframe requires Congressional approval, which appears unlikely as lawmakers face midterm elections in November and would be reluctant to approve what amounts to a tax increase.