Tariffs Impact State Economy: Deep Dive with James Vanderloo

The discussion around tariffs remains complex, even as we learn more about the impact tariffs will have on the state’s economy. This includes the estimated cost to consumers and businesses. James Vanderloo shares a deep dive into current fluctuations and how that alone is leading to uncertainty. The head of the Milwaukee branch of the OEC Group joins Jane Matenaer and Greg Bach, hosts of Matenaer on Air, to talk about the changes driving prices up and complicating planning for U.S. businesses.

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Listen to the Matenaer on Air interview with Vanderloo here:

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Vanderloo explains the American consumer has borne the brunt of tariffs imposed on products from countries like China and Mexico for years. It typically means higher prices on your everyday items. And while the government has attempted to address these economic shifts, the long-term consequences are always uncertain. 

Meanwhile, Wisconsin exports goods worth more than $28 billion annually. Tariffs hit farmers particularly hard, even with any type of temporary subsidy in place. Soybean and dairy producers in particular see retaliation from global markets.

Vanderloo also emphasizes the unpredictability of tariffs. He notes even minor adjustments can have massive ripple effects. 

“As tariffs will continue to escalate—sometimes as high as 25%—the difficulty for businesses in planning their imports and exports grows,” Vanderloo says. “This uncertainty affects everything from raw materials to finished products.”

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Watch this episode of the Matenaer on Air show here:

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But Vanderloo holds on to optimism. He highlights the opportunities for U.S. businesses to explore emerging markets in Africa and beyond, possibly balancing some of the damage caused by the tariff battles. The economic repercussions may take months or even years to fully unfold. And Vanderloo calls tariffs the future of global trade with businesses in Wisconsin and the greater U.S. moving forward to adapt or risk falling behind.  

The bigger goal? Vanderloo hopes to demystify the impact of tariffs and provide clarity to anyone navigating the complexities involving international trade.