FedEx sues U.S. government seeking refunds of duties after court ruling
By Axel Miller | 24 Feb 2026
Summary
FedEx has filed a lawsuit seeking refunds for duties paid under tariffs imposed using emergency powers, following a court decision that questioned the legal basis for those measures. The case could set a precedent for broader corporate claims.
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 23, 2026 — FedEx has filed a lawsuit in the U.S. Court of International Trade seeking reimbursement for duties it paid under tariffs imposed using emergency authorities during the Trump administration, according to court filings.
The case comes after a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that addressed the scope of executive authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a law traditionally used for sanctions. The ruling has prompted companies to assess whether they may seek repayment of certain tariff-related costs.
Legal challenge targets use of emergency powers
FedEx argues in its complaint that duties collected under the contested tariffs should be refunded. The company did not disclose the total amount it is seeking, but its filing states that it paid the duties as an importer of record on shipments entering the United States.
The lawsuit names the U.S. government and customs authorities as defendants. Officials had not publicly commented on the case at the time of filing.
Potential ripple effects across corporate America
Trade lawyers say the case could be among the first of several attempts by companies to recover tariff payments if courts ultimately determine refunds are warranted.
Estimates from policy analysts suggest that the total value of duties potentially subject to legal claims could reach into the tens of billions of dollars, though the final scope will depend on how lower courts interpret the ruling and determine refund mechanisms.
Complex path to any repayments
Legal experts caution that even if courts uphold refund claims, the process could take years and would likely require detailed documentation of tariff payments.
Large importers with comprehensive records may be better positioned to pursue claims, while smaller businesses could face greater challenges proving eligibility.
Why this matters
The lawsuit highlights the far-reaching implications of court rulings on trade policy and executive authority.
If successful, refund claims could create significant fiscal exposure for the U.S. government and reshape how companies evaluate tariff risk in future trade disputes. The case also underscores how legal uncertainty can ripple across supply chains and corporate balance sheets.
FAQs
Q1. Why did FedEx file the lawsuit?
The company is seeking reimbursement for duties it paid under tariffs imposed using emergency powers that were later challenged in court.
Q2. What law is at the center of the dispute?
The International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which governs certain presidential authorities related to economic measures.
Q3. How much money could be involved?
Analysts say potential claims could total tens of billions of dollars, but the final amount depends on court decisions and eligibility criteria.
Q4. Does the Supreme Court ruling guarantee refunds?
No. Lower courts will determine whether refunds are required and how they would be administered.
Q5. Could other companies file similar claims?
Yes. Legal experts expect additional lawsuits if firms believe they paid duties under the same framework.
