Japanese companies, including Sumitomo Chemical, Kawasaki Motors, and Toyota Tsusho, have taken legal action in the United States to recover tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. These companies have filed lawsuits with the U.S. Court of International Trade, challenging the legality of the "reciprocal tariffs" that were implemented under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
According to reports from Kyodo News, the companies argue that the tariffs were unjustly levied and are seeking full refunds. The move comes amid ongoing deliberations by the U.S. Supreme Court, which recently heard oral arguments on the matter. The Supreme Court is evaluating whether the Trump administration overstepped its bounds by imposing these tariffs under the IEEPA, which allows for the regulation of imports but does not explicitly authorize broad tariff imposition.
The legal journey has seen previous rulings from both the Court of International Trade and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, which found that the IEEPA did not grant the President the power to impose wide-ranging tariffs. The Japanese firms, anticipating the Supreme Court's decision, are acting to ensure their financial interests are protected, as there is no certainty of reimbursement even if the tariffs are ultimately deemed illegal.
The lawsuits are part of a broader pushback against the tariffs, with U.S.-based companies like Costco also seeking refunds. The legal landscape could see further activity, with potential additional lawsuits from Japanese affiliates beyond the nine companies currently confirmed. This case highlights the ongoing international trade tensions and the legal complexities surrounding tariff regulations.
Copyright ⓒ 뉴스로드 무단 전재 및 재배포 금지
