Costco Takes White House to Court Over ‘Unlawful' Tariffs
CostcoCostco(US:COST) PYMNTS.com·2025-12-02 17:08

Core Argument - Costco has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming that the tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) are unlawful and seeking a full refund of all levies paid under these tariffs [2][3]. Group 1: Legal Basis of the Lawsuit - The lawsuit argues that the IEEPA does not clearly authorize the President to set tariffs, thus rendering the challenged tariff orders invalid [2]. - Costco is requesting the Court of International Trade to consider all tariffs collected under IEEPA as illegal [2]. Group 2: Implications for Costco - The company claims it is facing "imminent and irreparable harm" due to anticipated liquidation of entries for which it paid IEEPA duties as early as December 15 [3]. - Costco emphasizes the necessity of the lawsuit, stating that without judicial relief, it is "not guaranteed a refund for those unlawfully collected tariffs" [6]. Group 3: Context of the Lawsuit - Costco joins other companies, including Revlon, Kawasaki, and Bumble Bee Foods, in legal action against the White House regarding tariffs [3]. - The lawsuit coincides with the U.S. Supreme Court's consideration of the legality of these tariffs, following challenges from multiple states and businesses [3][4].