If the Supreme Court rules against former President Donald Trump in the ongoing tariff case, the United States could face a massive financial fallout, with estimates suggesting refunds could reach up to $1 trillion. This includes returning tens of billions of dollars paid by companies this year, plus accumulated interest. The longer the legal process drags on, the greater the potential refunds become, impacting the economy significantly.

For technology firms—ranging from startups to industry giants—the stakes are especially high. A ruling in favor of canceling tariffs would not only mean recovering import duties but also removing tariff-induced disruptions that have encouraged companies to rethink supply chain strategies. Experts warn, according to economics researcher Matthew Allen, that such disruptions threaten long-term innovation, especially in sectors like semiconductors and software, which rely heavily on stable international partnerships and diversified supply chains.

The Supreme Court is currently examining two cases challenging the president’s authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs unilaterally. Trump justified these tariffs as a response to persistent trade imbalances, claiming they were necessary to prevent economic decline. A decision against the tariffs could reshape the landscape of global trade and U.S. economic policy.

David Nield

Dave is a freelance tech journalist with over 20 years covering gadgets, apps, and the web. From Stockport, England, he covers news, features, and reviews for TechRadar, focusing on phones, tablets, and wearables. He ensures top weekend breaking news and has bylines at Gizmodo, T3, PopSci, and others. He edited PC Explorer and The Hardware Handbook for years. Read me on x.com or linkedin.