Tariffs imposed by the president raised prices for American consumers, but the resulting refunds are flowing only to businesses.
Households felt the financial impact of the now-illegal tariffs, yet companies have said little about sharing the $166 billion returning to them.
The Supreme Court ruled the tariffs unconstitutional earlier this year, forcing the government to repay all duties collected.
Consumers paid higher costs for goods like electronics, furniture, and clothing throughout the tariff period.
Many businesses passed those added expenses directly to shoppers through higher retail prices.
Now, with the refund process underway, only importing companies are eligible to reclaim the money.
Consumer advocacy groups argue that corporations have a moral obligation to pass those refunds to customers.
Some businesses have publicly stated they will use the money for other purposes, including investments or shareholder returns.
The government has not required companies to distribute any portion of the refunds to end consumers.
Economists estimate the average household spent hundreds of dollars more due to the tariff-related price increases.
Several lawmakers are proposing legislation to force corporations to repay consumers directly.
The refund total of $166 billion represents one of the largest single repayments in U.S. trade history.
Businesses have until next year to file claims for the duties they paid at the border.
If companies keep the full sum, it would amount to a massive windfall for importers at the expense of everyday shoppers.
