US Tariffs Target Chinese Goods, Spur Global Impact

US tariffs, particularly those aimed at Chinese goods and pharmaceuticals, are raising costs for businesses and consumers while disrupting supply chains and worsening health inequities globally, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Many US companies face higher operating expenses and are seeking ways to absorb, pass on, or circumvent these costs, with some considering both legal and illicit methods. Ongoing policy uncertainty is leading firms to pause or reconsider long-term investments, while executives implement cost-cutting measures, renegotiate supplier contracts, and in some cases initiate layoffs, particularly in manufacturing. High tariffs are discouraging new orders at major ports like Los Angeles, contributing to a slowdown in economic activity. Business and consumer confidence is fluctuating in response to tariff policy announcements. Legal challenges over the legitimacy of the tariffs are ongoing, further increasing economic uncertainty.