US Companies Bear Most Costs of 2025 Tariffs, NY Fed Study Finds

Summary

A recent study by the New York Federal Reserve shows that nearly 90% of the costs from tariffs imposed in 2025 were paid by U.S. companies, not foreign exporters. Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods, usually meant to protect local businesses by making foreign products more expensive. However, this study suggests that American businesses are absorbing most of these extra costs instead of passing them entirely to foreign companies. This means U.S. firms may face higher expenses, which can lead to increased prices for consumers or lower profits for the businesses themselves. For South Africa, this insight is important as global trade policies, like tariffs, affect international markets and supply chains. Understanding who really pays these costs helps businesses and consumers better prepare for changes in product prices and market competition.