Charting How U.S. Tariffs Will Hit Key Products

Visual Capitalist: “U.S. tariffs have climbed to an average rate of 18.6%—the highest since 1933. But what does this mean for everyday consumers? This visualization, developed in collaboration with the Hinrich Foundation, highlights major goods expected to face sustained price increases due to rising tariffs. Based on data from the Yale Budget Lab, it explores both short-term shocks and longer-term inflationary effects.

Tariffs & Inflation – Tariffs drive inflation by raising the cost of imported goods, pushing prices higher for both consumers and businesses that rely on them. In the short run, companies often pass these increased input costs directly onto consumers, creating immediate price spikes. Over time, the effects compound: with less competition from foreign producers, domestic firms may raise prices as well. Retaliatory tariffs and global supply chain disruptions can further intensify these inflationary pressures.

Short-Term Price Hikes – Tariffs currently affect a wide range of countries and goods. As a result, short-term price increases are expected across numerous sectors. These spikes are most pronounced early on, as businesses have limited time or flexibility to pivot to alternative sources. In the longer term, they can adjust whether by sourcing domestically or eliminating certain inputs altogether. Among the hardest-hit categories are primary goods like metals, which are projected to rise by 41.0%, and crops, expected to climb by 31.5%. Consumer goods will also be significantly affected: clothing prices could jump 36.6%, electronics 17.0%, and motor vehicles 12.4%…”