Tariffs Start to Bite Consumers as Companies Struggle to Absorb Costs

Companies are beginning to shift the burden of tariffs onto consumers. Initially, businesses absorbed the tax during President Trump’s trade war, but they’re running out of options to maintain price stability. Government data shows that prices rose in June for items heavily affected by tariffs, such as home furnishings, toys, and appliances.

As profit margins continue to deteriorate, companies are looking for ways to pass on additional costs to consumers. This shift could lead to a more pronounced impact on consumer prices in the months ahead. With many businesses exhausting their strategies to keep costs stable, it’s becoming clear that the tariffs are starting to bite consumers.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/02/business/trump-tariffs-consumer-prices.html