Nintendo Sues Trump Administration Over 'Unlawful' Tariffs

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Nintendo has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government, including several federal agencies and officials, over President Donald Trump's tariff measures that the company describes as "unlawful." The complaint alleges that the government's "unlawful trade measures" have "resulted in the collection of more than $200 billion in tariffs on imports from nearly all countries" and demands a "prompt refund, with interest, of any IEEPA duties" paid out since February 2025.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration's protectionist trade policies and the global business community. Nintendo's lawsuit challenges the legal basis for the president's use of the International Economic Emergency Powers Act to impose sweeping tariffs, which have faced widespread criticism for their economic impact.

The details

Nintendo's complaint alleges that the IEEPA does not provide proper justification for the kind of tariffs imposed by Trump beginning in January 2025, his first month back in office. The company claims the court must take action on its refund demand "within two years after the cause of first action accrues."

• In January 2025, Trump imposed tariffs of up to 25% on China, Mexico, and Canada in his first month back in office.
• On April 2, 2025, Trump invoked the IEEPA to impose a 10% reciprocal tariff on all imports to the U.S., with some countries designated for hikes up to 50%.
• In February 2026, the Supreme Court struck down several of Trump's most aggressive tariffs in a 6-3 ruling.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to grant Nintendo's demand for a refund with interest on the tariffs paid.