Why Trump's potential tariffs are making business owners anxious
Jan 23, 2025
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President Trump's proposed tariffs on imports from China, Canada, and Mexico are stirring unease among U.S. business owners. The uncertainty surrounding these tariffs can significantly affect economic stability. We hear firsthand from owners impacted by past trade wars, revealing how unpredictable trade policies disrupt operations. A corn and soybean farmer shares the challenges posed by international competition, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of tariffs on local businesses and markets.
The looming tariffs on imports can lead to significant financial burdens for businesses and complicate pricing strategies amid prevailing uncertainty.
American farmers previously impacted by tariffs prefer market-based income over government bailouts, emphasizing their vulnerability to international trade dynamics.
Deep dives
Impact of Tariffs on U.S. Farmers
The potential implementation of tariffs by the U.S. government can have significant repercussions for American farmers, particularly those reliant on exports. For instance, during the previous trade war, U.S. soybeans became a target of Chinese tariffs, resulting in Chinese buyers shifting their imports to competitors like Brazil. This shift led to a dramatic drop in soybean prices, severely impacting farmers' profitability and forcing them to adapt by altering their crop choices. Although some financial compensation was received from the federal government, many farmers express a preference for income generated through market sales rather than government bailouts.
Uncertainty's Ripple Effect on Businesses
Uncertainty arising from potential tariffs significantly complicates business operations across various sectors. Companies face unpredictable costs, making it challenging to determine pricing strategies that would not alienate customers. Moreover, the fear of retaliatory tariffs can hinder a firm's competitiveness in global markets as customers may choose cheaper alternatives from other countries. Businesses may also resort to making advance purchases to mitigate future tariff impacts; however, this approach incurs upfront costs that may ultimately be passed on to consumers, adding to the broader economic strain.
A freshly re-inaugurated President Trump is reportedly considering making his first moves on tariffs: a 10% tariff on Chinese imports and a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, both of which he says could start as early as next week.
If the U.S. slaps tariffs on foreign products, U.S companies that import foreign goods, and their customers, will bear the cost. But, before any of that happens, businesses can also face a less tangible cost—uncertainty.
Today on the show, we hear from a couple business owners who experienced Trump's first trade war. And we'll learn how the uncertainty from tariffs, or just the threat of them, can have ripple effects throughout the economy.