The administration has started to repay some of the money, but has signaled it may make it harder for certain businesses to claim the full amount they are owed.

The Justice Department said in a court filing it would appeal a federal judge’s order allowing all importers—not just those who sued the administration—to seek out refunds.

The processing of repayments has already begun, but the appeal could affect the operation, with US$166 billion in revenue at stake.