US importing companies are now eligible to receive 166 billion USD in tax refunds, including interest. They began submitting applications on 20/4 through a new portal launched by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

CBP estimates that refunds will be disbursed within 60-90 days of an application's approval. However, the process may take longer if further review of the application is required.

Container trucks at Seattle port, Washington, 11/2025. Photo: Reuters

On 20/2, the US Supreme Court rejected Donald Trump's import tax policies, which were based on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). These policies included reciprocal tariffs and separate rates applied to Mexico, Canada, and China. Collection of these taxes ceased on 24/2.

CBP's refund program, named CAPE, is "designed to consolidate refunds due under IEEPA, including interest, rather than processing them shipment by shipment," CBP stated in an earlier announcement.

Only entities identified as the official importer of record who paid the duties, or authorized customs brokers, are eligible to apply for refunds. However, not all eligible duties could be filed immediately on 20/4. This marks only the first phase of the program.

It remains unclear when the system will open for all eligible refunds. This process could extend further if the Trump administration takes additional actions to delay or reduce the scope of the refund amount.

"There are other legal mechanisms that could significantly reduce this number," Kevin Hassett, a White House economic advisor, stated in a recent interview with Fox News.

Ha Thu (according to CNN, Reuters)