Taiwan, Spokane, Minnesota Businesses Struggle Amid Trump Tariffs

Small businesses across the United States are grappling with the repercussions of President Trump's escalating tariffs on Chinese imports, which have reached as high as 145%. Retailers like Pamela Barclay in Spokane and toy store owner Bobby Novak express deep concerns over the potential loss of inventory and the impact on profitability, as they face higher costs that they cannot easily pass on to customers. In Taiwan, manufacturers like Alex Tang are also bracing for the challenges posed by these tariffs, which disrupt their export markets while presenting opportunities against Chinese competitors. The situation is further complicated by the uncertainty surrounding future tariff increases, leaving many businesses in a precarious position. Meanwhile, Japanese exporters, such as Kaneko Kohyo Pottery, are feeling the strain as they worry about reduced demand stemming from higher prices in the U.S. market, although some see a potential shift towards luxury branding. Overall, the trade war is creating a complex web of economic challenges that affect local businesses and international trade alike.