Why was Trump's "reciprocal tariffs" ruled "illegal"? What will happen next?

The U.S. Court of Appeals ruled that Trump's tariffs on multiple countries are illegal, and Trump responded "angrily."

According to CCTV News, on August 29 local time, the U.S. Court of Appeals ruled that most of the global tariff policies implemented by President Trump are illegal. The court stated that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not explicitly grant the U.S. president the authority to impose tariffs, and Trump's invocation of this law to impose tariffs exceeded his authority.

The report pointed out that the court halted the tariffs imposed by Trump under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, including the so-called "reciprocal tariffs" announced on April 2, as well as tariffs aimed at preventing fentanyl-related imports. However, the so-called industry tariffs on automobiles, steel, and aluminum were not included in this ruling.

Despite being ruled invalid, these tariffs will remain in effect until October 14 to allow the U.S. Supreme Court time to review the case. President Trump criticized the appellate court's ruling via social media that day:

All tariffs remain in effect! The "partisan biased appellate court" is wrong. If the tariffs are canceled, it will be a total disaster for the U.S.

Core of the Court's Ruling: Boundaries of Presidential Power

The majority opinion of the U.S. Federal Circuit Court of Appeals found that Trump's invocation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffs exceeded presidential authority.

This act was established in 1977 and was originally intended to address economic threats during national emergencies.

The court's ruling provided for a buffer period. These tariff measures can remain in place until October 14 to allow the U.S. government to appeal to the Supreme Court.

This means that the relevant tariff measures will continue to affect trade partners until the Supreme Court makes a final ruling.

Whether the Supreme Court will accept this case and the possible timeline for hearings will be key factors in determining the ultimate fate of these tariff measures.

White House Response: Upholding Legitimacy and Seeking Appeal

In response to the judicial ruling, both the White House and Trump himself made strong statements.

According to reports, White House spokesperson Kush Desai stated in a press release:

President Trump has legitimately exercised the tariff powers granted to him by Congress to defend our nation and economic security against foreign threats.

He also confirmed that the president's tariffs will continue to be effective and expressed "anticipation of achieving final victory in this matter."

Trump emphasized on social media that he will continue to leverage these tariffs for the benefit of the nation with the help of the U.S. Supreme Court