Overview
- At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy said pre-tariff stockpiles have been depleted and the levies are now “creeping” into retail prices on some goods.
- Researchers at the Kiel Institute analyzed more than 25 million shipment records worth nearly $4 trillion and estimated about 96% of tariff costs are borne by U.S. buyers.
- The White House argues the duties do not add inflation and will bolster domestic production, a stance challenged by the Kiel findings and retailer testimony.
- The U.S. has enacted or threatened tariffs of up to 25% on European Union imports, and the EU is preparing retaliatory measures on U.S. goods worth up to €93 billion.
- German industry groups and unions warn of higher costs, supply-chain strain and risks to jobs, while companies assess options such as expanding U.S. manufacturing or seeking alternative markets.