Costco sues Trump administration for full refund of tariffs paid on imported goods

Legal & Financial Dispute - Costco is suing the Trump administration for a full refund of tariffs paid on imported goods under Trump's tariff plan [1] - The lawsuit challenges the legality of tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) [2][3] - The White House estimates that upholding President Trump's tariffs has brought in nearly $90 billion through September [4] - Costco seeks millions in refunds, arguing IEEPA doesn't authorize the president to set tariffs [3] Potential Impact & Industry Response - A Supreme Court ruling against the administration could open the door for other businesses to sue for tariff refunds [5] - Revlon, Kawasaki, and Bumblebee have filed similar suits [5] - Experts suggest that success for other companies may be difficult, as Costco's claim is specific to its business model [5][6] Costco's Business Strategy & Stance - Costco claims it has not raised prices due to tariffs, absorbing the costs to avoid passing them on to customers [6] - Costco has maintained its DEI policies despite pressure from the White House, unlike some other large US businesses [6][7] - Costco has a large customer base of 145 million worldwide, with about half in the United States, giving it significant consumer power [7] Alternative Tariff Implementation - There are at least six other ways President Trump could impose tariffs, involving Congress, the International Trade Commission, or the US Trade Representative [9] - The current tariffs were implemented via executive order by President Trump [10]