FedEx to Pass Tariff Refunds to Customers Amid Legal Developments
NEW YORK (AP) — FedEx has announced its intention to return any potential tariff refunds to the original payers, including shippers and customers, following recent legal proceedings.
The company’s statement follows its legal action in the U.S. Court of International Trade, where it seeks reimbursement for tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act by former President Donald Trump. The Supreme Court recently ruled these tariffs as unlawful.
FedEx is among over 1,000 companies, including major players like Costco and Revlon, that have sought legal recourse to reclaim expenses incurred due to these tariffs. In its statement, FedEx confirmed, “If refunds are issued to FedEx, we will issue refunds to the shippers and consumers who originally bore those charges.” The company also noted that the timeline and procedure for these refunds depend on forthcoming guidance from legal and governmental authorities.
While the Supreme Court’s decision did not specify a refund mechanism, efforts to establish a process have begun. The Liberty Justice Center, alongside co-counsel Neal Katyal, initiated motions in both the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and the U.S. Court of International Trade to expedite the refund procedure. The government’s response is anticipated shortly.
FedEx emphasized its commitment to transparency, stating, “We are committed to transparency and will communicate clearly as additional direction becomes available from the U.S. government and the court.” The development of a refund system is expected to be complex and time-consuming.
