The impact of Trump's tariffs

Donald Trump’s decision to slap tariffs on global trade has sent the world reeling. Stock markets have tanked. Gloomy economists have hit the airwaves. Governments, their backs against the wall, have responded with either stoic resignation or threats of revenge.

But it’s business owners who find themselves at the centre of the storm.

Steve in Boston, USA, runs a company whose flagship product contains three Chinese parts. He’s concerned about the effect tariffs will have on his business and others at home.

“There are manufacturers all over the United States that are going to get hit really hard, even if their products are made in the USA,” says Steve, “because often the electronics or some of the small components within the products are made overseas.”

We’ll also hear from business owners in Lesotho, India, Italy and Germany covering industries ranging from steel and spices to cheese and beer. Plus, two Republicans who voted for Trump disagree on whether his tariff policies are working for the American people.

“The atmosphere is not one that is fostering cooperation,” says Barry in California. “If anything the international community hates us right now and I don’t see how that’s going to keep my grocery bill down.”

Hosted by Mark Lowen.

A Boffin Media production with producer Sue Nelson in partnership with the BBC OS team and producers Iqra Farooq, Ben Davis and Kira Fomenko.

(Credit: Florian in Germany. Credit: Florian)