Unlocking Alabama’s Economic Power: How Tariff Threats Have Boosted Trade with Three Key Countries

WEST ALABAMA, Ala. (WBRC) – Let’s talk about how tariffs might affect businesses and prices in Alabama.

Alabama has strong trade ties with China, Canada, and Mexico. These countries are among the top five trade partners for the state. In fact, Alabama imported over $8 billion in goods from Mexico in 2023 alone.

Many Alabama businesses rely on parts from these countries. For example, the state is known for its auto manufacturing sector, which sells a lot of transportation equipment to partners in Canada, Mexico, and China.

Experts warn that if tariffs stay in place too long, we could see price increases. Peter Simonson, a business professor at the University of South Alabama, notes that while a brief delay in trade might not cause noticeable change, prolonged issues could disrupt the market significantly. “We are closely tied to Mexico and Canada, and if this situation drags on, it could impact prices for everyone,” he says.

Companies like Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota are keeping an eye on how tariffs develop but haven’t provided updates yet.

Staying informed is key. Whether it’s through news alerts on your phone or email newsletters, there are ways to keep up with these changes that could affect what you pay for goods.