Tariff refunds spark tough choices for U.S. importers

The Trump administration moved quickly to build a system to reimburse billions of dollars in tariffs, but the White House is now pressuring companies not to seek refunds, leaving importers to decide whether to pass savings to customers or risk political backlash. The refund pool could reach about $165 billion, with roughly 57,000 importers already starting the eligibility process out of an estimated 300,000 who paid tariffs. Costco signaled it would return value to members via lower prices, while some CEOs warn that not filing could invite litigation. The White House has not yet said whether it will appeal a court ruling limiting refunds, and the Supreme Court previously narrowed the tariffs under IEEPA.