A decision is expected any day now from the US Supreme Court on the legality of many of the tariffs imposed by US president Donald Trump. At issue is whether he exceeded his powers when he unilaterally imposed blanket tariffs on a string of countries under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. Sectoral tariffs in areas such as steel and automobiles will not be affected by this ruling, as they were imposed under different legislation. The decision is thus a key test of independence for a Supreme Court which includes several Trump nominees. Many legal experts expect the court to rule for the companies who have objected, after lower courts found in their favour.

Source: The Irish Times December 14, 2025 20:30 UTC