Costco(US:COST) Huan Qiu Shi Bao·2025-12-03 22:52Core Viewpoint - Costco has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. federal government, claiming that the imposition of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act is illegal and is seeking a full refund of the tariffs paid [1][3]. Group 1: Company Actions - Costco's Chief Financial Officer, Gary Millerchip, revealed that approximately one-third of the products sold in the U.S. are imported, with about two-thirds being non-food items, and around 8% of total sales coming from products imported from China [3]. - Prior to Costco's lawsuit, several companies, including Kawasaki and Bumble Bee Foods, had already initiated similar legal actions against the government, indicating a growing trend among businesses to challenge tariffs [3][4]. - The lawsuit by Costco is particularly notable as it marks the first time a major corporation has publicly taken such action, contrasting with smaller companies that have previously filed lawsuits [4][5]. Group 2: Impact of Tariffs - In response to tariff impacts, Costco has adjusted its pricing strategies, with some non-essential imported items, like flowers, experiencing price increases, while essential items, such as fresh fruits, have not seen price hikes [5]. - Kawasaki's CEO acknowledged that tariffs might necessitate a price increase of approximately 17% on high-end motorcycles sold in the U.S. [5]. Group 3: Legal Context - The U.S. Supreme Court is currently reviewing the legality of the federal government's authority to impose tariffs on multiple goods, with both liberal and conservative justices questioning the president's power to levy tariffs without congressional approval [6]. - Even if the Supreme Court rules against the tariffs, companies like Costco and Kawasaki have expressed that this may not guarantee the return of previously paid tariffs, necessitating legal action against the government [6]. Group 4: Government's Position - The U.S. government maintains that tariffs are essential for addressing long-term economic and national security challenges, despite the negative impact on small businesses [7]. - The Supreme Court has not yet announced when it will rule on the legality of the tariffs, but if deemed illegal, the government could face significant financial repercussions [7][8].