Florida businesses are feeling the pinch from new US tariffs on imported goods, particularly those related to manufacturing, construction, and everyday consumer items. The 10% tariff imposed by the US government affects products from countries such as China, Brazil, Colombia, Nicaragua, Mexico, and South America.
TeBella Tea Co., a small business owned by Abigail StClair, is one of the companies struggling with the new tariffs. She imports tea from at least six countries and has seen significant price increases due to the tariff. StClair expressed her concerns about the impact on her business, stating that small businesses like hers don’t have the negotiating power or buying power to adapt quickly.
The uncertainty surrounding the tariffs is causing hesitation among business owners, making it difficult for them to adjust their supply chains or set prices. Sean Snaith, an economist at the University of Central Florida, noted that “the sooner we can get to what the new set of rules is going to be, the sooner we can get to the adjustment process.”
Some small businesses are trying to spread out the costs over time by holding goods in a foreign trade zone before paying tariffs. However, it’s unclear how long this strategy will work and whether it will mitigate the impact on consumer prices.
As consumers become more cautious due to declining sentiment, business owners like StClair are worried about the long-term consequences of the tariffs. She hopes that exemptions may be made for products without a competitive American market, such as tea.
Despite the challenges, StClair is still moving forward with expansion plans, including giving a counter-offer for a North Carolina location and signing a lease for a Sarasota shop. She believes that her team’s hard work and dedication will help the business adapt to the new circumstances.
Source: https://www.tampabay.com/news/business/2025/05/24/heres-how-florida-is-already-feeling-effect-trumps-tariffs