Tariff Uncertainty Plagues Indiana Businesses

Indiana businesses are breathing a sigh of relief that there's a pause on non-China tariffs, according to a survey by the Indiana Chamber. However, the uncertainty around proposed tariffs is still causing concern among companies.

“We have heard and continue to hear from businesses across Indiana about the uncertainty around tariffs,” said Vanessa Green Sinders, CEO of the Indiana Chamber.

The Chamber conducted a survey to gauge the level of concern among its member companies. Over 200 businesses participated, with 80% saying they're concerned, 65% very concerned, and 20% neutral or not concerned at all.

“We can do our part to put together some perspective on potential impact from the business community,” said Green Sinders.

The top concerns for companies include increased business costs, shrinking product and consumer market, and overall supply chain disruptions. Heath Hurst, managing partner of Yard at North Mass and Heath Outdoor, a landscape construction and maintenance company, is keeping a close eye on developments in Washington DC.

“It’s more scary because we don’t know what to tell our customers if something is a problem or it's going to be a problem,” said Hurst.

Hurst says they haven't increased prices yet, but customers are starting to show signs of fear. “There’s some fear in the market. People are either doing jobs now like, Can you get mine done really really quick, or they’re saying I think I’m going to put it on hold for a while,” he said.

The survey is still open, and Green Sinders says it will help the Chamber better understand how to support Indiana businesses during this period of uncertainty.