U.S. Businesses Raise Alarm Over Trump’s Tariff Hikes
WASHINGTON: Leading U.S. business groups have expressed serious concerns over President Donald Trump’s latest tariff measures, warning they could increase costs, disrupt supply chains, and negatively impact key industries.
Standing outside the White House, Trump announced a baseline 10% tariff on most U.S. trading partners starting April 5, with additional levies taking effect from April 9 for nations that impose tariff and non-tariff restrictions on American companies.
Trade organizations reacted with unease, pointing out that goods imported from China, for example, would now face a cumulative tariff of 34% when combined with existing duties.
The National Restaurant Association cautioned that such sweeping tariffs would significantly impact the food industry. “These additional costs will create challenges for restaurant operators, making it harder for them to keep their businesses running,” the group stated.
Jay Timmons, President of the National Association of Manufacturers, echoed similar concerns. “The stakes for manufacturers couldn’t be higher,” he said. “Many U.S. manufacturers already operate on tight margins, and these tariffs will only add to their financial strain.”
He further warned that the tariff hikes could hinder investment, job creation, and supply chain stability, ultimately weakening the country’s manufacturing dominance.
Apart from China, key trading partners such as the European Union and India will also be subjected to tariffs of at least 20% starting April 9.
Neil Bradley, Chief Policy Officer at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, criticized the move, labeling the tariffs as a tax hike that will increase costs for American consumers. “These broad tariffs will harm the economy,” he said, urging policymakers to prioritize pro-growth strategies like tax policy reforms, regulatory rebalancing, and energy expansion instead.
A recent Yale University Budget Lab study estimated that a 20% across-the-board tariff could cost the average U.S. household at least $3,400 annually, further straining the cost of living.
Consumer Technology Association CEO Gary Shapiro issued a stark warning about the potential consequences. “President Trump’s global tariffs amount to a massive tax increase on Americans. These measures will fuel inflation, cost jobs, and could even push the U.S. economy into recession,” he said.
Despite widespread opposition, some trade groups welcomed the decision. Scott Paul, President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing, praised the move as a step toward prioritizing domestic production and job security.
“For decades, unfair trade practices have hurt American workers. These tariffs give them a fair shot at competing globally,” Paul stated, describing Trump’s decision as “a necessary corrective action.”
