“Companies from multiple sectors of the global economy are raising prices, abandoning previous financial strategies, and warning about increasing uncertainty, as the trade war launched by US President Donald Trump raises production costs, disrupts supply chains, and sparks concerns over the global economy, according to a Reuters analysis. The results of a study published on Thursday showed that companies worldwide have hit a wall of uncertainty in the first quarter of this year, as business leaders are faced with the constantly changing stance of the Trump administration on trade. Companies have had to account for the costs of chaos and establish ways to mitigate its consequences. “We will have to use all the levers we have in our arsenal to mitigate the impact of tariffs on our cost structure and profit and loss account,” said Andre Schulten, CFO of a concern that produces cosmetics and detergents. The manufacturer has announced its intention to increase prices in order to cover the additional costs generated by the trade war. In fact, recent comments from the largest companies producing packaged foods, beverages, and consumer goods have also highlighted concerns from businesses and investors that Trump’s wavering position on tariffs and his attacks on Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell will affect market confidence. Giant producers of juices, snacks, hygiene products, and medical equipment have recently lowered their annual profit forecasts, citing ongoing trade turbulence. And a major American airline has withdrawn its financial estimates for 2025, in line with its peers in the industry. “Compared to three months ago, we probably don’t feel as good about consumers,” said Jamie Caulfield, CFO of a juice company, to Reuters. Other companies have expressed similar sentiments. The CEO of a confectionery company, along with the founders of a fast-food chain and the beauty industry, have all reported a weakening of American consumer confidence.”
