Businesses in South Florida are beginning to feel the impact of President Donald Trump's new trade policy. As of this month, a base tariff of 10% on all imports has taken effect, causing tension in sectors such as construction, retail, and logistics. Among those affected is Christian Bello, owner of Roofing Nation LLC, based in Hialeah Gardens. In an interview with Telemundo 51, he described the extent of the issue.
Bello projects a short-term loss of 40% for his business and acknowledges that avoiding the increased costs is impossible. "Companies like ours... we all import from China," he stated after reviewing the prices of essential materials such as nails, asphalt sheets, and other construction supplies. Despite the challenges, Bello believes it remains more cost-effective to continue purchasing from China than to establish a manufacturing operation in the United States. "It's very expensive here. That's the reality... it remains very costly," he said with resignation.
Escalating Tariffs Complicate Business Calculations
The situation worsened as tariffs on China surged to 104%, according to President Trump, making financial planning increasingly complex. A report from the Port of Miami, released in 2024 with data from 2023, highlights China's role as the primary source of imported goods to South Florida, with a volume reaching $4.5 billion. This makes China a crucial trade partner for many local businesses now facing an uncertain future.
Wider Economic Implications
The impact extends across multiple sectors, as noted by economist Daniel Di Martino, who evaluates these policies from a macroeconomic standpoint. "These tariffs aren't on a single product but on everything. Costs will rise and consumers will have less money. Ultimately, the economy will shrink," he explained.
Efforts to Reassure Amid Economic Anxiety
In Washington, the new Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, sought to ease fears of a recession over the weekend, asserting that "a recession doesn't have to happen." Despite his assurances, anxiety persists among business owners, analysts, and consumers. White House officials have confirmed that approximately 70 countries have requested to renegotiate trade terms, underscoring the global impact of these measures.
Meanwhile, entrepreneurs like Christian Bello strive to withstand the storm. "I have six months to survive the rigors of this economic policy," he says. However, the outlook is challenging. Continued price increases, dependence on international suppliers, and the difficulty of local manufacturing pose a structural challenge for small and medium-sized enterprises in South Florida.
The new trade landscape not only jeopardizes businesses that rely on inexpensive imports but also raises questions about the future of the American economy.
FAQs on Trump's Tariff Impact on South Florida
How are South Florida businesses affected by Trump's tariffs?
Businesses in sectors like construction, retail, and logistics are experiencing increased costs due to a 10% base tariff on all imports, with additional surges on Chinese goods.
Why is China a significant trade partner for South Florida?
China is the main source of imported products for South Florida, with a trade volume valued at $4.5 billion, making it a vital partner for local businesses.
What is the projected impact on the wider economy?
The tariffs are expected to increase costs broadly, reducing consumer spending and potentially shrinking the economy, according to economists.