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US Appeals Court Pauses Ruling Against Trump's 10% Global Tariffs
A US federal appeals court granted a temporary administrative stay on a ruling that declared President Trump's global 10% tariffs illegal, as the government pursues an appeal. The move follows a May 7 CIT decision blocking the tariffs and sets a briefing schedule for both sides, while refunds for affected importers begin to flow.
Why It Matters
The temporary pause keeps the tariffs in limbo pending appeal, affecting whether duties can be collected or refunded and shaping potential future court outcomes, including possible Supreme Court involvement.
Timeline
6 Events
Refunds begin for tariffs; CNBC reports refunds underway
May 12, 2026
CNBC reported that businesses had begun to receive refunds, in line with a CBP timeline released earlier this month.
Trump administration argues for stay pending appeal
May 12, 2026
In its motion for a stay, the Trump administration argued that the CIT's decision should be stayed pending the full run of government appeals -- up to the Supreme Court, if necessary.
Federal Circuit issues administrative stay on CIT order; briefing schedule set
May 12, 2026
The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit issued a brief order that included an administrative stay on the CIT's order, setting a schedule for both sides to file briefs on the matter.
CIT blocks tariffs against two companies and Washington; decision to take effect on Tuesday
May 7, 2026
The US Court of International Trade blocked the tariffs from being implemented against two companies and the state of Washington. That decision was to take effect on Tuesday.
CBP estimates refunds for importers
March 2026
CBP estimated in March that more than 330,000 importers could be eligible for refunds after the Supreme Court's decision.
Trump imposes temporary 10% global tariff under Section 122
February 2026
Trump imposed the temporary 10-percent global tariff in February, shortly after the Supreme Court struck down many of his global tariffs.