As US President Donald Trump’s latest round of sweeping tariffs edges closer to taking effect, American households are racing to stock up on everyday essentials — from fruits and toothpaste to electronics and even building materials — before prices start to climb.
Trump’s proposed levies, announced Wednesday, add another layer to an escalating trade war that is already straining global markets and stirring consumer anxiety. With the new tariffs targeting nearly all major US trading partners, everyday goods imported from abroad are about to get more expensive — and fast.
What are the items getting affected?
Shoppers are flocking to supermarkets and electronics stores, hoping to buy ahead of what economists warn could be a prolonged period of price inflation. Perishable goods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products are likely to be hit first, with supermarkets needing to replenish stock more frequently.
But the impact doesn’t stop at the produce aisle. Electronics, clothing, footwear, auto parts, and pharmaceuticals — much of it imported — are all expected to carry higher price tags in the weeks to come.
“Annual losses for households at the bottom of the income distribution are estimated to be $980 under the April 2 policy alone,” said to John Breyault, vice president of public policy, telecom and fraud at National Consumers League
What’s flying off shelves?
Among the first to see a sales surge are:
- Fresh produce and pantry staples
- Consumer electronics like smartphones and laptops
- Clothing and footwear, especially imported brands
- Auto parts and vehicle maintenance supplies
- Building materials, as prospective homeowners try to avoid projected increases of over $9,000 per new home.
How can consumers prepare?
Experts advise strategic — not panicked — stockpiling. Buying extra of regularly-used, non-perishable items makes sense, but hoarding is discouraged.
“If you do plan stock up on consumables, make sure you have a plan on how to store them properly so you don’t end up having to throw out that 20-pound bag of shrimp, for example, in a few weeks,” said Breyault, as quoted by AP.
Trump administration imposed a 10% tariff on all US imports, and it is set to go into effect this Saturday, with even higher duties slated for implementation on April 9.
