South Fulton Today

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce has published a new report titled "Tariffs Briefing: April 2025 – New U.S. Tariffs + Potential Georgia Impact" to assist businesses and communities in Georgia to prepare for recent trade policy changes announced by the Trump Administration. The policy changes involve broad import tariffs and specific duties on particular goods, affecting various sectors, including small businesses, manufacturers, ports, construction, and agricultural exports.

In 2024, Georgia achieved record levels of international trade, ranking seventh in net exports across the United States. The state exported approximately $53.1 billion in goods and imported about $145.6 billion. Georgia's products reached 291 global markets, with service exports totaling around $31 billion.

The report is part of the Chamber's effort to support Georgia's business community in adapting to the evolving global trade environment. This follows the launch of the Global Business Subcommittee in February, aimed at providing trade insights and advocacy for Georgia's economic sectors involved in international commerce.

Some highlights from the report include challenges faced by businesses due to new tariffs which require evaluating and restructuring supply chains. The potential for the tariffs to attract new investments or open additional markets remains uncertain due to unpredictable global factors. Georgia's supply chain networks, particularly at coastal and inland ports, may face significant disruptions as businesses reassess their logistics strategies. The report also notes the impact of tariffs on imports, such as metals and manufacturing components, which could affect company margins and the viability of smaller firms. Additionally, Georgia's agricultural exports may become targets if retaliatory actions escalate on a global scale.

"The Georgia Chamber recommends our members take a proactive stance in the face of these changes and will continue to advocate for the members of our business community. Despite the headwinds, Georgia’s economy remains dynamic and resilient. By staying informed and adaptable, the state’s business community can mitigate risks and even find growth opportunities in the new trade landscape."