Fearing Trump's Tariff Hikes, One-Third of Americans Stockpile Essentials | WPN World People News

Fearing a spike in prices due to President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on imported goods, as many as one-third of Americans have begun stockpiling essential items like toilet paper and non-perishable foods. Concerns over the future, marked by fear and uncertainty, have led to this trend.

According to a survey conducted in late November by CreditCards.com, a website specializing in credit card and financial information, 30% of 2,000 American respondents said they planned to shop more than usual during this year’s holiday season. Among them, 39% cited concerns over potential price increases driven by tariffs as the primary reason for their early purchases.

Currently, the top stockpiled items among Americans include toilet paper (77%), non-perishable foods (76%), medical supplies (58%), over-the-counter medicines (54%), personal care and cosmetics (24%), household items and appliances (33%), firearms and ammunition (26%), and water filtration systems (25%). Most respondents indicated that they would complete part or all of their holiday shopping this December.

Trump has repeatedly stated that he plans to impose tariffs on foreign imports after taking office. His proposals include a 10% tariff on Chinese imports and a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada. Economists have warned that such tariffs could increase the cost of goods like gasoline and lumber, trigger inflation, and raise prices across a wide range of products domestically.