Importers in the United States have begun tapping into what could become the largest government refund programme ever, triggered by a Supreme Court ruling that scrapped billions in tariffs from Donald Trump’s era.
The online portal, known as Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries or Cape, went live on Monday, letting firms claim back more than $160 billion in duties plus interest from the so-called “Liberation Day” levies.
A March decision from the U.S. Court of International Trade ordered Customs and Border Protection to repay around 330,000 businesses hit by these charges, imposed under the 1977 International Emergency Economic Powers Act. That law, meant for true crises, fuelled years of trade tensions from 2018 to 2025. By early April, over 56,000 claims worth $127 billion had poured in, with payouts promised as lump sums within 60 to 90 days.
While the system promises efficiency, small businesses report a rocky start. Dan Anthony, executive director of advocacy group We Pay the Tariffs, said, “As expected, today’s refund portal launch is a mixed bag for small businesses.” Many worry fresh tariffs from the incoming Trump team could erase the gains by summer.
Electric bike firm Bunch Bikes founder Aaron Powell filed swiftly for $120,000 but noted glitches for others. “I am cautiously optimistic, but until the money is in my bank account, I am not counting on it or spending it,” he told the BBC. “At the moment, we are not hiring, not going out and spending or making big investments, it’s a buffer as we have more tariffs expected in July or August.”
Consumers, stuck with higher prices passed on by retailers, get no direct slice. Judge Richard Eaton ruled that all importers of record whose entries were subject to IEEPA duties are entitled to the benefit. Yet officials like Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent foresee little trickle-down. “I got a feeling the American people won’t see it.”
Class actions target firms including EssilorLuxottica, FedEx, and Costco, pushing for customer refunds. Costco’s Ron Vachris pledged pass-throughs through lower prices and better values. Lamp maker Sue Johnson doubts her supplier will share. “Maybe they’ll get repaid, but I have no hope they’re going to refund me.”
As trade wars loom anew, this windfall offers temporary respite for businesses, but everyday shoppers remain priced out.