Golden State Today

The ongoing dialogue over tariffs and their impact on businesses and consumers has prompted a response from the California Chamber of Commerce (CalChamber). With the Federal Administration maintaining its stance on tariffs and a recent lawsuit filed by the state’s Governor and Attorney General challenging these measures, CalChamber President and CEO Jennifer Barrera has articulated the organization's concerns.

In a statement, Barrera highlighted CalChamber's longstanding support for "a free trade agenda that fosters economic growth and job creation, including advocacy on lowering or eliminating tariff and non-tariff barriers for businesses." She expressed concern over protectionist strategies, stating that these "disrupt global supply chains and raise costs on businesses," effects that are passed on to consumers through "higher consumer prices or limited choices on products."

Barrera further addressed the economic strain faced by Californians, pointing out that as they "grapple with rising costs and worry about daily pocketbook issues," the imposition of additional tariffs "will only further exacerbate the affordability crisis that millions are facing and will have dire consequences on the California economy."

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