August M
A sweeping US tariff regime has generated enormous revenue in a single year, even as its legal foundations face scrutiny. With billions already collected, the policy now sits in the balance as judges consider whether it should have existed at all.
The outcome could determine whether companies see refunds or further payments.
Record sums collected
According to reporting by Digi24.ro, citing CNBC, US Customs and Border Protection said it collected more than $200 billion in tariffs this year under new measures introduced by President Donald Trump starting in 2025.
CBP said the figure covers tariffs imposed between January 20 and December 15, 2025, and applies only to measures adopted during Trump’s current term.
Tariffs introduced during his first presidency are excluded and are not part of the legal challenge.
“Between January 20 and December 15, 2025, US Customs and Border Protection collected more than $200 billion in tariffs under more than 40 executive orders adopted by the administration of President Donald Trump,” CBP said in a statement.
How tariffs were imposed
According to CNBC, earlier this year Trump introduced so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on imports from most countries without congressional approval. He also imposed “fentanyl tariffs” on goods from Canada, China and Mexico, citing what his administration described as failures to curb the flow of the drug into the US.
CBP said the revenue demonstrated its effectiveness in supporting trade enforcement and national security goals.
“CBP’s law enforcement is producing results,” said CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott, adding that the agency protects the US economy and domestic industries through inspections and action against violations.
Signs of slowdown
Despite the headline figure, tariff income dipped in November for the first time since the policy was announced in April.
The government collected $30.75 billion that month, down slightly from $31.15 billion in October.
The decline was attributed to slower shipments into the US and the administration’s decision to scale back some tariffs, CNBC notes.
Legal uncertainty
The tariffs now face a decisive test at the Supreme Court. If the court rules the measures unlawful, companies that have paid them could be entitled to refunds.
In August, the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld a ruling that the president lacked authority to impose tariffs without Congress.
“The fundamental power to impose taxes, such as tariffs, is conferred exclusively on the legislative branch by the Constitution,” the court said.
In November, retailer Costco joined other companies in suing the administration, seeking refunds and a suspension of collections until the Supreme Court rules, CNBC reports.
What comes next
Until the court delivers its decision, the tariffs remain in force, leaving businesses and markets facing continued uncertainty over trade policy and potential repayments.
Sources: Digi24.ro, CNBC
