U.S. tariffs introduced under former President Donald Trump are borne almost entirely by American importers and consumers, according to new research from the Kiel Institute for the World Economy. The study finds that roughly 96% of the tariff burden falls on domestic buyers, with foreign exporters absorbing only a small share of the costs.
The findings challenge the argument that tariffs primarily penalize overseas producers. Instead, higher duties raise import prices, which are then passed through supply chains to U.S. businesses and households. The research indicates that tariff-driven price increases affect a broad range of goods, amplifying inflationary pressure.
Economists say the results highlight the limited effectiveness of tariffs as a tool for shifting costs abroad. The study adds to evidence that trade barriers tend to weigh on domestic consumption and competitiveness rather than deliver sustained economic gains.