Tariff policy could reset economic conditions for decades. Below is an analysis from our CEO Bradford C. Jeter, CEPA?.
The Tariff Squeeze New and proposed tariffs are jacking up the price of foreign goods coming in and making it tougher for US firms to offload products overseas. The math’s simple: when importing components or finished goods gets pricier, and exporting hits retaliatory walls, companies start looking closer to home. Supply chains are shortening, and "Made in the USA" is becoming less a slogan and more a survival tactic. For businesses that relied on global trade, it’s a scramble to retool. But for those ready to pivot, the domestic market just got a lot more attractive. Who Wins? Industries Set to Cash In: Manufacturing (Heavy Machinery & Equipment) Tariffs on imported steel and parts mean companies like Caterpillar or John Deere could see a boost as buyers turn to American-made gear. Domestic producers with established US supply chains can undercut foreign rivals now stuck with tariff bloat. Textiles & Apparel Fast fashion’s been bleeding from overseas for years, but tariffs could revive US textile hubs like the Carolinas. Brands leaning into "local" – think smaller runs of quality goods – might find a hungry audience tired of shipping delays and hidden costs. Agriculture & Food Processing Export-heavy crops like soybeans took a hit in past trade wars, but a forced pivot to US buyers could juice up local food processors. Think meatpacking, dairy, and packaged goods – companies like Tyson or Kraft could lean harder into supermarket shelves over cargo ships. Renewable Energy Tech Solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries have been import-dominated, but tariffs could spark a domestic boom. Firms like Tesla (energy division) or First Solar might ramp up US production to dodge the import tax and snag government incentives. Consumer Electronics (Niche Players) Big players like Apple might still offshore, but smaller US-based gadget makers – think custom PCs or audio gear – could carve out a loyal base. Tariffs make the cheap import flood less viable, giving homegrown tinkerers an edge.