SME’s Told “Don’t Put All Your Eggs In One Basket”

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Bahamian small businesses are feeling the pinch as new U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump, create fresh challenges for local retailers.

With costs on the rise, many are now looking for alternatives, and The Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation (BCCEC) is stepping in, exploring ways to mitigate the strain.

The Chamber Chief recently spoke with our Delvardo Emmanuel via zoom about the impact and possible solutions.

For years, sourcing goods from China has been a cost-effective strategy for many Bahamian businesses, but with the U.S. imposing tariffs, local importers are caught in the crossfire, facing rising expenses that could trickle down to consumers.

Bahamas Chamber of Commerce and Employers Confederation Chief Dr. Leo Rolle, says he recently met with U.S. Charge D’affaires Kimberly Furnish to discuss the uncertainty surrounding the tariffs.

With so much uncertainty, Dr. Rolle says the chamber is actively seeking new trade partnerships beyond China to cushion small businesses from price shocks.

Markets in Europe, Asia, and Africa are also being considered.

Dr. Rolle says diversifying trade partnerships is a smart move, even if the tariffs don’t last.