Tariffs are a barrier to unlocking America’s full economic potential, said U.S. Chamber President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark this week. Speaking on Fox Business’ The Claman Countdown, Clark sounded the alarm on the harmful effects of tariffs, which she describes as a $200 billion tax on small businesses in 2025.
- “The impact [of tariffs] on small businesses has been huge,” Clark stated. “If we didn’t have the tax of tariffs, the economy could be on fire.”
- Clark highlighted how tariffs are driving up costs, creating uncertainty, and forcing small businesses to make tough decisions that hurt their growth and competitiveness.
Why it matters: Small businesses are the backbone of local economies. Rising costs, canceled orders, and supply chain disruptions are just some of the challenges they face from tariffs.
- Clark noted that uncertainty caused by tariffs is stifling investment and innovation, making it harder for businesses to thrive.
Big picture: Despite these challenges, Clark remains optimistic about the resilience of American businesses. “We just had the third year in a row of record new business starts,” she said.
- “There are people who are optimistic. There are people who want to build here and invest here, if we could reduce this uncertainty,” Clark said.
Bottom line: Policymakers can drive faster economic growth that improves Americans’ lives by reducing barriers like tariffs. |
