Trump tariffs trigger panic buying across the US

As the United States prepares to implement President Donald Trump’s latest round of import tariffs, many Americans are rushing to buy basic items before prices go up. These tariffs will affect a wide range of products imported from other countries, leading to higher costs for everyday goods. The new tariff policy is part of a growing trade conflict that has already made global markets unstable and caused concern among American consumers.

Items in high demand

Due to the upcoming price hikes, people across the country are visiting supermarkets, electronics stores and clothing outlets to stock up. Perishable items like fruits, vegetables and dairy products are expected to be affected first since stores need to restock them frequently. Howeverother goods like smartphones, laptops, clothing, footwear, medicines and auto parts are also expected to become more expensive soon.

Even home builders are buying building materials ahead of time. Experts predict that the cost of building a new home could increase by over $9,000 because of the new duties.

Estimated impact on households

According to John Breyault, a policy expert at the National Consumers League, families with lower incomes are expected to suffer the most. Under the tariff policy that takes effect on April 2, the yearly loss for such families could reach around $980. This is a serious concern for those already struggling to make ends meet.

What are people buying?

Some of the most commonly purchased items include:

- Fresh fruits, vegetables and dry groceries

- Electronic gadgets like phones and laptops

- Clothing and shoes especially from foreign brands

- Car parts and repair supplies

- Home construction materials

How to prepare wisely

Experts are advising people not to panic but to be smart about their purchases. Stocking up on non-perishable goods that are used regularly can be helpful. However, it is important not to buy in excess especially for items that can spoil quickly. For example, buying large amounts of seafood or frozen meat without proper storage could lead to waste.