Savannah businesses hope Supreme Court tariff ruling brings relief to rising import costs

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The Supreme Court has ruled that President Donald Trump exceeded his authority in imposing global tariffs, a decision that could reshape trade policy. Some Savannah businesses say rising tariffs have already affected the cost of products and long-term planning.

Local retailers absorb rising import costs

Small businesses that rely on overseas suppliers say import costs have climbed steadily in recent years. Costs for imported goods have increased for many businesses over the past year, particularly for specialized items such as cameras, film and processing chemicals.

For local shops catering to students and artists, that has meant fewer options and higher prices.

Dalton Rice, owner of Savannah Film Lab, said a machine breakdown two days ago required him to ship a single replacement part from overseas at a cost of $400. The part itself costs $30. Rice said he has reduced his inventory as a result of rising costs.

“For a camera that we were used to able source for around $125 shipped now is anywhere from $250 to $300,” Rice said.

Rice said he is hopeful the ruling will bring relief.

“I’d be ecstatic for that because that opens up so many opportunities for us,” Rice said. “If these tariffs go away, then we’ll be able to bring in things at such a more affordable rate for people.”

Manufacturers also affected

The impact extends beyond retail. A manufacturer in Savannah says tariffs on imported materials, including containers and specialized components, have driven up costs even for companies that produce goods domestically.

Matthew Bush, director of operations at Sesolinc Grp. Inc., said a 50 percent tariff affected imported steel products, including containers sourced from Europe.

“Anything that we imported made of steel, including containers, even from Europe, did impact us,” Bush said. “It’s hard to plan when you’re not exactly able to predict things.”

While the future of tariffs remains uncertain, locals say they will be closely monitoring federal decisions to see how the ruling affects prices, inventory and the local economy.