Myrtle Beach retailers face rising prices due to President Trump’s tariffs, majorly affecting stores selling imported products, including Trump-themed merchandise. Shop owners are taking preparatory measures to mitigate impacts, yet there is concern about increased costs for consumers and a decline in customer sales amid ongoing trade tensions.

The retail landscape in Myrtle Beach is experiencing price increases due to newly implemented tariffs by President Donald Trump, affecting even his major supporters. Shops, including the Keep on Trumpin’ Store and various Mexican grocery stores, are facing price hikes attributed to the ongoing trade war with China, Canada, and Mexico, as most of their merchandise is imported from these countries.

Since taking office, President Trump escalated a trade war, introducing a 10% tariff on Chinese products as of February 4. This was followed by an increase in tariffs imposed by China on March 4 and a 25% fee on numerous imports from Mexico and Canada. Consequently, manufacturers have warned the Keep on Trumpin’ Store about projected price increases, as reported by the store manager Lauren Kligman.

To mitigate potential price hikes, the Keep on Trumpin’ Store strategically increased its merchandise order by 25% ahead of the tourist season. Kligman expressed confidence in this decision, stating it prepares the store for price fluctuations. The store focuses on selling Trump-themed merchandise, attempting to keep customer prices stable for the time being.

Viktor Ilus, owner of The Dixie Shop, anticipates an increase in prices for his goods; although he has yet to implement these changes. Predominantly, both stores sell items sourced from China. Ilus holds a hope that these tariffs may boost domestic manufacturing despite being apprehensive about the implications for pricing. He remarked, “We love Trump, whatever he does we go for it.”

However, once the current stock depletes, the Keep on Trumpin’ Store and Klig’s Kites will need to reorder items at higher costs, ultimately passing these increases on to their customers. Kligman acknowledged the negative implications for consumers, stating, “It stinks for our customers, but we have to do it.”

Kligman also noted her neutral stance on the tariffs, confident that tourists are willing to spend more while on vacation. Other local businesses, including El Mercadito Chiapaneco, are also grappling with the impact of the trade war, leading to increased prices for essential goods such as meats and produce, provoking customer complaints and a noticeable decline in sales.

The uncertainty resulting from Trump’s policies is also reported to affect Canadian tourists, with some opting to cancel trips to the area. In contrast, Zack Shamah of Mega Wave Surf and Resort Wear mentioned that his store’s prices are stable for the 2025 season, as pre-orders secure prices against future high costs, primarily affecting items with metal components rather than cotton products sourced from countries outside the trade conflict.

In conclusion, Myrtle Beach’s retail sector, particularly stores aligned with President Trump, are grappling with the ramifications of newly imposed tariffs which are causing price escalations. As businesses prepare for these increases, they are attempting to sustain customer prices through proactive inventory management. However, uncertainty from these tariffs continues to affect both local enterprises and tourists, signaling a pivotal point in the retail landscape.

Original Source: www.myrtlebeachonline.com

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