With President Trump’s announcement of tariffs, North Carolina’s agricultural and brewing sectors gathered in Asheville to raise alarms about the detrimental effects on their businesses and consumers. These new tariffs are expected to significantly increase operational costs for farmers and brewers, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers and threatening the viability of local businesses and tourism.

New polling from Tariffs Cost Us and the nonpartisan pollster Morning Consult found:

• Four-in-five NC voters (71%) expect the cost of goods they purchase to increase because of tariffs, including two-in-three Republicans (66%) and three-in-four Independents (72%).

• Three-in-four North Carolina voters (70%) say they are trying to spend less money because of tariffs.

• A majority (54%) of NC voters believe that American consumers will be harmed the most by tariffs and/or a resulting trade war. And, a majority of Republicans (60%) believe American consumers, businesses, and/or farmers will be hurt the most.

Tariff Impact on North Carolina: By the Numbers
North Carolina’s economy relies heavily on trade, with Canada ranking as the state’s largest export market, followed by China and Mexico. The 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports, along with levies on Chinese and European Union goods, is expected to have widespread economic consequences.

Manufacturing: North Carolina is home to more than 470,000 manufacturing jobs, many of which depend on imported materials. The new tariffs will increase costs for auto manufacturers, aerospace companies, and furniture makers, leading to job losses and higher prices for consumers.

Agriculture: The state’s $111 billion agriculture industry will take a hit as tariffs disrupt trade relationships. Pork and poultry farmers, who rely on exports to Canada and Mexico, face potential revenue losses, while tariffs on fertilizers and equipment will increase operational costs.

Construction & Housing: Tariffs on lumber, steel, and aluminum will raise building costs, making homes more expensive at a time when housing affordability is already a pressing issue. Experts estimate a nearly 5% increase in construction costs across North Carolina.