News Summary
Dallas businesses are on edge as they anticipate the effects of a new 100% tariff on Chinese goods set to take effect soon. Local owners report significant price changes and market shifts, particularly in the automotive industry. Rising inflation and delivery delays heighten the uncertainty, prompting business owners to adjust strategies in response to the evolving economic landscape. With the Supreme Court set to review the president’s authority over tariffs, the future of Texas businesses hangs in the balance.
Dallas Businesses Gear Up for Economic Changes with New Tariffs
The air in Dallas is thick with anticipation as businesses brace themselves for the significant impact of a new 100% tariff on Chinese goods, which is set to take effect on November 1st. As the news has spread, many local business owners are beginning to feel the ripple effects of ongoing tariffs that have already been intensified by the ongoing pandemic.
Rampant Price Changes and Uncertainty
Steve Harman, co-owner of MediaHead, has witnessed first-hand the challenges presented by these tariffs. Since March 2025, he has noticed significant price changes across the board, especially for essential equipment like lighting and cameras. The fluctuating costs have made it increasingly difficult for his company to provide accurate quotes, as prices can change within days.
Meanwhile, Don Herring, who heads up Don Herring Mitsubishi, has shared that there’s been a noticeable shift in the car market. The sale of new cars has seen a decline, while the demand for used cars is on the rise. With rebates for new 2025 models not being as substantial as those available for 2024 models, the dealership is feeling the weight of these economic changes.
Inflation on the Rise
Speaking nationally, the costs of imports have taken a leap, rising approximately 5%. This uptick directly affects inflation rates and places more strain on Texas businesses trying to cope with the economic fallout. Experts suggest that the national strategy for tariffs could result in Texas facing a reduction in its GDP by around 1.5%, equating to potential losses of $47 billion and jeopardizing close to 100,000 jobs.
Strategic Adjustments in Response to Tariffs
Amidst this uncertainty, businesses like Harman’s have had to rethink their strategies and expand their offerings, all while remaining selective about the projects they take on to ensure profitability during these turbulent times. As manufacturers adjust to the ongoing financial impacts of tariffs, they’re limiting rebates and incentives available, creating a tighter market.
Delivery Delays and Economic Consequences
The effects of these tariffs are widespread, leading to delays in product deliveries. The norm of getting orders delivered within five days is now a distant memory for many, with some orders now taking weeks. With Texas being the leading exporting state in the U.S., moving about $455 billion in goods last year, these developments could spell severe economic consequences for the state.
A Glimpse at the Bigger Picture of Texas
As businesses try to navigate the choppy waters brought on by tariffs and trade policies, there is growing concern that these factors, combined with overregulation, might hinder Texas’ future economic growth. Interestingly, despite these challenges, notable real estate developments such as AI data centers are gaining traction, driven by the state’s abundant natural gas supply and a potential for significant investment.
However, it isn’t all smooth sailing, particularly in the North Texas luxury real estate market, which is currently softening. Sellers are now resorting to auctioning properties as a strategy to entice buyers amid shifting market dynamics.
Looking Ahead
As the calendar flips to November, all eyes will be on Texas. With the Supreme Court set to hear arguments about the president’s authority over country-specific tariffs on November 5th, it’s a pivotal moment that could shape the future for businesses across the state. There’s no doubt that these are challenging times for many Texas businesses, and locals are hopeful for a positive resolution that will boost the state’s economy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Spectrum Local News: North Texas Business Owners Feeling Impact of Tariffs
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- Politico: Trump Mixes New Truck Tariffs with Auto Tariff Relief
- Star-Telegram: Fort Worth Business News
- Houston Chronicle: Michael McCaul on Trump Tariffs and China
- Wikipedia: Tariffs
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tariff
- Google News: Tariffs in Texas
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
