The tariffs fell in court. New ones arrived in four days.
A landmark ruling ended the emergency tariffs, but a temporary global tariff replaced them. Importers face refunds, new rates and a July deadline.
By the Xuru Technologies team · 24 February 2026
Key takeaways
- On 20 February 2026 the Supreme Court ruled 6–3 that tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act were not authorised by that law.
- A 10% tariff on most US imports under Section 122 took effect on 24 February, for up to 150 days, to 24 July 2026.
- Refunds of past IEEPA duties were sent back to the Court of International Trade, with no immediate guidance.
For a year, tariffs changed by announcement. The court has now limited one route, but trade costs remain high and uncertain for anyone importing goods into the US.
What happened
The Toy Association summarised the ruling and the new proclamation, including an exemption for USMCA-compliant goods from Canada and Mexico and a plan announced on 21 February to raise the rate to 15%. Law firm Cadwalader set out considerations for importers, and Thomson Reuters explained the shift to Section 122.
What it means for importers and sellers
- Possible refunds. Importers who paid IEEPA duties should keep records and talk to their customs broker.
- Prices may move again. The new tariff is temporary and could rise or lapse by July.
- Customers notice. Explain price changes simply to keep trust.
What to do now
| Action | Why |
|---|---|
| Preserve customs documents | Needed for any refund claim. |
| Model 10% and 15% scenarios | Know your margin either way. |
| Make price updates easy | Change product prices in bulk, fast. |
| Grow non-US markets | UK, EU and Australian sales spread the risk. |
Frequently asked questions
What did the Supreme Court decide on tariffs?On 20 February 2026 it ruled 6–3 that tariffs imposed under IEEPA were not authorised by that law, invalidating them.
On 20 February 2026 it ruled 6–3 that tariffs imposed under IEEPA were not authorised by that law, invalidating them.
What is the Section 122 tariff?A temporary tariff of 10% on most US imports from 24 February 2026, which can last up to 150 days unless Congress extends it.
A temporary tariff of 10% on most US imports from 24 February 2026, which can last up to 150 days unless Congress extends it.
Will importers get refunds?The Court did not order immediate refunds and sent the issue to the Court of International Trade. Keep records and take professional advice.
The Court did not order immediate refunds and sent the issue to the Court of International Trade. Keep records and take professional advice.
Update prices in minutes, sell in more markets.
Online stores with bulk pricing tools, duty-aware checkout and country landing pages.
Websites, payments, digital marketing, AI automation, consultancy and practical technology training — for businesses and aspiring professionals worldwide.
Saturday – Sunday: closed
Leave a Reply