At least nine Japanese corporations including Toyota Tsusho and Sumitomo Chemical have filed lawsuits against the United States government seeking full refunds of tariffs paid under former president Donald Trump's trade policies.
The companies have taken legal action at the US Court of International Trade to preserve refund rights as the Supreme Court examines the legality of the reciprocal tariffs. Other plaintiffs include Ricoh, Yokohama Rubber, Ushio, NGK Insulators, Kawasaki Motors, Yamazaki Mazak and Proterial (formerly Hitachi Metals), with more Japanese firms reportedly considering similar actions.
The lawsuits focus on tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which Trump invoked citing national emergencies. Plaintiffs argue this exceeded presidential authority, while tariffs under other laws remain uncontested.
Legal experts note even if courts eventually order refunds, the complex case-by-case review process could take years, providing little immediate financial relief. The action follows similar lawsuits by American companies including Costco, reflecting broader business dissatisfaction with tariff costs.
The Supreme Court heard oral arguments November 5 regarding whether IEEPA grants presidents tariff-imposing authority, with its pending decision expected to impact presidential trade powers, corporate tariff burdens and global supply chain costs.
