WASHINGTON: The US Supreme Court has struck down former President Donald Trump’s broad tariffs ruling that he exceeded his legal authority by using emergency powers to impose import taxes.

In a 6-3 decision authored by Chief Justice John Roberts the court held that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant the president independent authority to levy tariffs. Roberts wrote that the power to regulate importation under the law does not include the ability to impose tariffs.

The ruling upholds lower court decisions and represents a significant legal setback for Trump’s trade policies which relied heavily on tariffs targeting numerous US trading partners. The majority cited the major questions doctrine stating that actions with major economic consequences require clear congressional approval.

In dissent Justice Brett Kavanaugh argued that the decision does not prevent tariffs under other statutes but warned of potential complications, including refund issues.

Democratic leaders welcomed the ruling. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer described it as a victory for consumers criticising Trump’s tariff strategy.

Analysts say the decision could impact trade markets and ongoing negotiations while leaving open alternative legal avenues for future tariff measures.