Small businesses, which make up 98% of retailers and support more than 13 million American jobs, are particularly vulnerable. Owning a small business embodies the ideals of freedom and opportunity that are central to the American Dream. However, tariffs jeopardize the very foundation of these ideals.
Tariffs are taxes on U.S. importers, not foreign nations. U.S. job creators — including retailers, restaurants, manufacturers and other Main Street businesses — bear the burden of tariffs.
Higher prices for consumers. Small businesses cannot absorb these increased costs and are often forced to pass tariff increases on to their customers, resulting in higher prices.
Declining consumer confidence. Tariff uncertainty is causing consumer confidence to decline, meaning shoppers may cut back on spending at local retail establishments.
Inability to source domestically. Many small retailers strive to source from American manufacturers, but not all products are available domestically.
Possible closures. Small businesses often lack the margins to absorb increased costs from tariffs, which could lead to store closures.
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U.S. job creators — including retailers, restaurants, manufacturers and other Main Street businesses — bear the burden of tariffs. Small retailers share how these added costs are affecting them and their customers.
Hear how mounting tariffs and policy uncertainty create significant challenges for small businesses and the economy.
Do you have a story on how tariffs are impacting your small business? Record a Tariff Impact Story.
Apr 29, 2025
Small retailers sound the alarm on broad-based tariffs
The American Dream is at stake for 98% of retailers and more than 13 million American jobs
Advocacy
Apr 14, 2025
Small businesses struggle in the wake of new tariffs
Mounting tariffs and policy uncertainty create significant challenges for small businesses and the economy
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Sweeping global tariffs represent a new challenge for small retailers
New tariffs mean higher costs, slimmer margins and an uncertain future for U.S. small businesses
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How voters really feel about the 2025 tariffs
They’re concerned about the impact on prices and small businesses.
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Small retailers react to threat of new tariffs
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May 8, 2025
Virginia entrepreneur says tariffs may tank company serving moms – NBC4 Washington, NBC 4 Washington
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Squeezed By Tariffs, California Winemakers Fret About Future, Forbes
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April 27, 2025
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April 22, 2025
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April 21, 2025
'Pouring gasoline on a fire'; Gold skyrockets, dollar plunges as Trump bullies Fed Chair , CNN
How tariffs are impacting Tacoma-area small businesses | Tacoma News Tribune, The News Tribune
April 19, 2025