Maryland businesses fear tariffs will raise prices on imports
- Maryland grocery owners are preparing for potential price increases due to tariffs on produce and other imports.
- Businesses reliant on Asian imports, such as Filipino markets, express growing concern over impending tariff hikes.
- The uncertainty surrounding these tariffs could force many businesses to alter their sourcing strategies significantly.
In Maryland, grocers and businesses are increasingly concerned about the implications of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on various imported goods. As of early April 2025, businesses relying on agricultural imports from countries like Mexico and Canada are particularly anxious. Owners like Joseph DiPasquale of DiPasquale's Italian Market fear immediate price hikes on essential items, especially produce, due to their high volatility in purchasing. Similarly, Tessa & Sons Philippine Market, which focuses on Filipino products, faces heightened challenges as tariffs threaten to inflate costs further. The uncertainty around tariffs has put many in a precarious position, as they balance operational adjustments with customer affordability. The current climate has also driven calls for reevaluation of tariff policies to alleviate inflation's strain on consumers. The Maryland Retailers Alliance echoes these sentiments, arguing that the tariffs are excessively broad and do not target specific economic issues affecting American families. Business owners like Theresa Laviano maintain hope for adapting to these tariffs but await clearer guidance on their economic future.