The Intelligence from The Economist Duties bound: a Trump-tariff smackdown
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May 29, 2025 
Rachna Shanbhog, Business Affairs Editor at The Economist, joins Henry Tricks, U.S. Technology Editor, and Sue-Lin Wong, Asia Correspondent, for a lively discussion. They dissect a recent court ruling against Trump's tariffs, exploring its implications for trade negotiations and executive power. The conversation shifts to AI, revealing a backdrop of excitement mixed with disillusionment as companies grapple with operational challenges. They also delve into Xi Jinping's father's legacy, shedding light on the Chinese leader's character and motivations.
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Court Rules Trump Tariffs Illegal
- Trump's fentanyl and Liberation Day tariffs were ruled executive overreach and deemed illegal by the US Court of International Trade.
- Tariffs were used as leverage but lacked direct legal grounding and constitutional authority.
Legal Limits on Presidential Tariffs
- The court found Trump's tariffs lacked a direct link to the stated emergencies and violated the major questions doctrine.
- This doctrine restricts presidential power on sweeping significant economic actions without clear congressional authorization.
White House Appeals; Limited Tariff Options
- The White House quickly appealed the ruling, asserting that dealing with national emergencies is executive prerogative.
- Future tariff moves will rely on more limited legislation, reducing presidential tariff authority.
