
Appeals court says most of Trump’s tariffs are unlawful, but duties stay for now
The Federal Circuit ruled most of the tariffs lack statutory authorisation but left the duties in place while the administration prepares an appeal.

The Federal Circuit ruled most of the tariffs lack statutory authorisation but left the duties in place while the administration prepares an appeal.

The court cited substantial legal issues over the president’s trade powers and the risk of economic harm, directing the parties to file briefs by early June.

The White House has already filed an appeal, setting the stage for a legal battle that could reach the Supreme Court.

The ruling could strip the president of the power to levy duties without congressional approval and force the roll-back of existing levies, with major implications for businesses and global supply chains.

The finance minister defends the VAT hike as an urgent fiscal necessity, warning that suspending it could blow a R13.5bn hole in the Budget.