US states sue to block Trump tariffs impacting dozens of countries

What the report says

Twenty-five US states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration seeking to block newly imposed tariffs on goods from 60 trading partners, according to BBC World News. The challenge targets duties of 10% to 12.5% that took effect in July and apply to a wide range of imports from countries including the UK, China, Japan, Brazil and Taiwan, as well as the European Union.

The states, led by Democratic officials, argue in court filings that the measures are unlawful and exceed the administration’s authority. They say the government is using allegations about forced labour as a justification for a broader tariff policy they describe as arbitrary and inconsistent with the law. The White House says the tariffs are a lawful tool to address practices that harm American businesses and that countries failing to confront forced-labour-linked imports should face consequences.

The BBC reports that the duties were introduced under Section 301 of the 1974 US Trade Act, a law used in trade disputes involving unfair practices. The tariffs are wide-ranging, covering nearly all US imports, and have prompted criticism from some affected governments, including Brazil, Japan and China.

The case adds to a series of legal and policy fights over Trump’s trade agenda since he returned to office in 2025. More broadly, it underscores the continuing dispute over how far the US can use tariffs to pressure trading partners on labour and trade policy, and it could have significant effects for businesses and consumers if the levies are upheld or refunded.