Workflow
关税战40天:美国经济的极限压力测试
WalmartWalmart(US:WMT) 虎嗅APP·2025-05-29 13:20

Core Viewpoint - Trump's tariff policies aim to reshape global trade order and promote U.S. re-industrialization, with a focus on generating new revenue sources through tariffs [1][2]. Group 1: Tariff Implementation and Impact - Trump imposed high tariffs on nearly all U.S. trading partners within 40 days, with China facing the highest tariffs, reaching 145% on certain goods [4][6]. - The uncertainty surrounding U.S. trade policies has reached historical highs, significantly impacting market confidence and leading to increased concerns among businesses [2][6]. - A temporary suspension of tariffs was announced for 90 days, reducing tariffs from 49% to 10% for certain countries, but China remained unaffected [4][7]. Group 2: Business Challenges - U.S. businesses, particularly small companies reliant on Chinese imports, faced severe challenges due to rising costs and declining sales, leading to cash flow issues [9][10]. - Major retailers like Walmart indicated they could not fully absorb tariff costs, leading to price increases for consumers [11][12]. - The toy industry, represented by companies like Mattel, anticipated price hikes due to tariffs, with significant portions of their products manufactured in China [12][13]. Group 3: Agricultural Sector Impact - U.S. farmers have suffered significant losses due to trade wars, with agricultural exports dropping by over $27 billion during Trump's first term [15][18]. - California pistachio growers, heavily reliant on the Chinese market, faced potential devastating losses due to tariffs [16][17]. - The soybean export market has seen a drastic decline, with exports to China dropping by 75% since the onset of the trade war [18]. Group 4: Consumer Confidence - Consumer confidence in the U.S. has been negatively affected by tariff policies, with a reported decline in consumer sentiment index [20][21]. - The uncertainty and rising costs associated with tariffs have led to a significant reduction in imports at major California ports, indicating broader economic impacts [22]. - The recent agreement to reduce tariffs between the U.S. and China has provided some clarity, but economists warn of potential economic slowdowns in the coming quarters [23][24].