WASHINGTON (CP) – Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced Sunday that the Trump administration’s tariff policies will proceed as planned, with the temporary 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs set to end in July, despite a federal court questioning certain trade authorities used in implementing the measures.
The Trump administration’s economic team provided reassurance about trade policy direction during Sunday television appearances, emphasizing that multiple legal authorities support ongoing tariff implementation. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated on Fox News Sunday that “tariffs are not going away” and indicated no plans to extend the April pause on reciprocal tariffs that were temporarily suspended for review. The administration maintains that these trade measures are essential for encouraging fair negotiations with China and other trading partners while protecting American manufacturing jobs and national security interests.
A federal trade court ruling last week raised procedural questions about certain emergency powers used in tariff implementation, but an appeals court quickly granted an administrative pause to allow proper legal review of the case, which legal experts expect will reach the Supreme Court. President Trump expressed confidence in the eventual outcome, noting through social media that strong trade enforcement prevents other nations from taking advantage of American economic interests. The administration has emphasized that court challenges will not affect ongoing negotiations, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett indicating that discussions with Chinese leadership may resume this week.
The administration continues implementing protective trade measures, including raising steel tariffs to 50 percent to safeguard American steel workers and domestic production capabilities. While some industries may experience adjustment periods, officials describe these steps as necessary for ensuring fair international competition and supporting USA manufacturing sectors critical to economic growth and national security. The White House maintains that achieving “first-class deals” with trading partners remains the primary goal, with initial framework agreements already announced with Britain and additional negotiations expected throughout 2025.