A recent survey found that 86% of Americans expect tariffs to raise costs, and 12% are stockpiling goods in anticipation. Economists warn that businesses will likely pass these costs to consumers, increasing prices on groceries, electronics, and other essential items. David French of the National Retail Federation stated that tariffs are taxes on Americans and should only be applied strategically. Experts caution that stockpiling could disrupt supply chains and artificially inflate prices, outweighing short-term savings.
