Trump tariffs have small businesses bracing for ‘the end,’ freezing overseas orders: ‘Huge amount of strain’

New York Post - Apr 8th, 2025

Small business owners in the US are facing a severe challenge as the Trump administration enacts steep tariff hikes on goods imported from China and Vietnam. The tariffs, which will increase to 104% for Chinese products and 46% for Vietnamese goods, are forcing businesses to reconsider their operations. Companies like New York-based Day Owl, which imports backpacks from Vietnam, and a clothing manufacturer producing garments in China, are among those hardest hit. These tariff increases could lead to significant price hikes for consumers and threaten the survival of small businesses that lack the leverage to negotiate lower costs with overseas partners. Owners such as Ian Rosenberger of Day Owl and an unnamed New York-based clothing manufacturer express fears about the future of their businesses, with some predicting closures within months if the trade tensions persist.

The implications of these tariffs extend beyond apparel, affecting various sectors reliant on imports. For instance, Wonderstate, a Wisconsin-based coffee roaster and importer, anticipates a $300,000 increase in costs due to new tariffs on coffee beans from several countries. This unexpected financial burden is forcing companies to pause expansion plans and tighten budgets, a move that could have broader economic impacts. The mounting strain on small businesses highlights the ripple effects of international trade policies on domestic markets, underscoring the interconnectedness of global supply chains and the vulnerability of smaller enterprises amid geopolitical tensions.

Vietnam Tariffs Trade Policy Us China Trade War Small Businesses Day Owl Wonderstate Coffee Ian Rosenberger Cassie Abel

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

5.4

Moderately Fair

Read with skepticism

The article provides a timely and engaging look at the impact of tariffs on small businesses, using personal stories to illustrate the challenges faced by entrepreneurs. It effectively highlights issues of public interest, such as the potential economic impact of trade policies on consumer prices and business viability. However, the article's accuracy is somewhat undermined by a lack of verification for key claims and a reliance on anecdotal evidence without corroboration from authoritative sources. Additionally, while the narrative is clear and accessible, the article could benefit from a more balanced presentation of perspectives and greater transparency in sourcing and methodology. Overall, the story succeeds in raising awareness about the immediate effects of tariffs but falls short in providing a comprehensive, well-rounded analysis of the broader economic and policy implications.

Accuracy

The story presents several factual claims that require verification, such as the specific tariff rates announced by the Trump administration and their effective dates. The article claims a 104% tariff on Chinese products and a 46% tariff on Vietnamese goods, which are significant figures that need confirmation from reliable sources like government announcements or trade reports. Additionally, the percentages of clothing manufactured in China and Vietnam (30% and 25%, respectively) should be verified with trade data or industry analyses. The article's accuracy is somewhat weakened by the lack of direct citations or links to official statements or data supporting these claims.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the negative impacts of the tariffs on small businesses, particularly those involved in apparel and coffee importation. While it provides detailed accounts from affected business owners, it lacks perspectives from other stakeholders, such as government officials or economists, who might offer different viewpoints on the tariffs' intended benefits or broader economic implications. This focus results in a somewhat unbalanced portrayal that emphasizes the hardships faced by small businesses without exploring potential positive outcomes or alternative perspectives.

Clarity

The article is generally clear and straightforward, with a logical flow that guides the reader through the narrative of how tariffs are impacting small businesses. The language is accessible, and the examples provided are relatable, making the complex issue of international trade more understandable to a general audience. However, the article could benefit from clearer explanations of specific terms, such as the technical aspects of tariff implementation, to enhance comprehension further.

Source quality

The article cites specific business owners and their experiences, which adds a degree of authenticity to the narrative. However, it lacks a diverse range of sources, relying heavily on anecdotal evidence without corroboration from authoritative sources such as trade experts, economists, or government representatives. The absence of these voices limits the article's reliability and depth, as it doesn't provide a comprehensive view supported by varied and credible sources.

Transparency

The article presents its claims without much explanation of the methodology behind the figures or the context of the tariff increases. There is little transparency regarding how the information was gathered or the potential biases of the sources quoted. For instance, the article mentions interviews with business owners but does not disclose the full scope of the research or any potential conflicts of interest these sources might have. This lack of transparency can affect readers' ability to fully understand the basis of the claims made.