Supreme Court’s Decision to Toss Trump Tariffs Lauded by NRF and RILA

The U.S. Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision to strike down President Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to imposing tariffs has drawn praise from both the National Retail Federation (NRF) and the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA).

David French, the NRF’s EVP of Government Relations, said the Supreme Court’s ruling, disclosed on Feb. 20, “provides much-needed certainty for U.S. businesses and manufacturers, enabling global supply chains to operate without ambiguity. Clear and consistent trade policy is essential for economic growth, creating jobs and opportunities for American families. We urge the lower court to ensure a seamless process to refund the tariffs to U.S. importers. The refunds will serve as an economic boost and allow companies to reinvest in their operations, their employees and their customers.”

In a similar vein, RILA President and CEO Brian Dodge said the Supreme Court ruling “opens the door for the Administration to engage industry more closely on trade policy to create the stability and predictability American retailers and consumers need.”

Sourcing decisions and shifts to global supply chains require significant preparation and planning, and adjustments cannot be made in an instant, the RILA statement said.  But while this decision addresses the President’s use of IEEPA to impose sweeping tariffs, the association noted, many consumer products will continue to face high duties and the administration could reconstruct some of the struck-down tariffs with other instruments.

“The nation’s leading retailers support the administration’s goal to grow the economy, create jobs and protect our national security,” Dodge said. “The court’s decision provides an opportunity to direct the nation’s trade policy toward U.S. economic growth and affordability for American families.

“We urge the administration and Congress to work together with industry stakeholders to chart a trade agenda that considers the needs of everyday Americans while also protecting America’s long-term interests. The nation’s leading retailers stand ready to partner in that effort.”