Impact of Trump’s tariffs: Is the US facing a commercial storm ahead?
The impact of a trade war is already being felt in the United States, as empty containers arriving from China signal trouble ahead for the economy. With tariffs imposed by the government of Donald Trump reaching up to 145% on Chinese imports, the rules of the game have changed dramatically.
Alarms have been sounded in the docks of California, as ships arrive half-loaded or empty, showing a 35% decrease in import volume compared to the previous year. Some importers have even started canceling orders due to the high tariffs, which could lead to shortages and high prices in the near future.
Retailers are trying to avoid the new tariffs by storing merchandise in China, but scarcity is becoming inevitable as the arrival of products is expected to decrease by 60%. This will not only lead to higher costs but also limit options for consumers, with shelves possibly starting to empty soon.
Many companies rushed to stockpile merchandise in advance of the trade war, causing a peak in imports that has now started to decline sharply. With a record trade deficit and a potential 80% reduction in imports from China, the next few months are crucial for the economy.
A tense summer lies ahead, with empty shelves, high prices, and limited variety becoming a reality for American consumers. The effects of a trade war may start at the top, but they will be felt in every home.
