Verified excerpt published on July 14, 2025
America First, Prices Second? The Cost of New Tariffs
The proposed tariffs of up to 50% on imports from the EU, Mexico, and other countries are poised to significantly increase the cost of everyday consumer goods in the U.S., particularly in sectors heavily reliant on these imports. For instance, the National Retail Federation estimates that clothing prices could rise between 12.5% and 20.6%, meaning an $80 pair of jeans might cost up to $96. Similarly, toys, many of which are imported from China and Southeast Asia, could see price hikes ranging from 36.3% to 55.8%, making a $200 crib potentially cost between $273 and $311. These increases are expected to manifest quickly, as retailers adjust prices to offset higher import costs, leading to noticeable impacts on household budgets within weeks of the tariffs' implementation. It is, however, important to consider the positive effects of tariffs: domestic production will increase, creating a new reliance on American-made goods. This will—in theory—bolster...
Ethan Hess
Intern