Online fashion retailer Asos is seeking refunds worth £7m in tariffs it paid to the United States during the first half of its financial year. The move follows a Supreme Court ruling that struck down the so-called Liberation Day tariffs introduced last year, clearing the way for what could become the largest repayment programme in history.

An online claims portal opened this week, allowing businesses to apply for reimbursements. While some companies reported a smooth process, others encountered technical difficulties due to high demand. More than 56,000 importers have already submitted claims worth a combined $127bn, and successful applicants are expected to receive refunds with interest within 60 to 90 days.

Asos disclosed the refund effort as it reported a reduced pre-tax loss of £137.9m for the six months to 1 March, compared with £241.5m a year earlier. The company has been working through a turnaround plan after facing weaker consumer demand and increased competition from low-cost Chinese rivals, while also managing supply chain pressures linked to conflict in the Middle East.