The Tariff-Inflation Link: A Closer Look Beyond the Headlines

Published in Business and Finance on Thursday, August 21st 2025 at 18:04 GMT by Seeking Alpha
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The narrative that tariffs are a primary driver of inflation has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. While acknowledging some price increases associated with import duties, a deeper analysis reveals a more complex picture than simple cause and effect. This article will explore the arguments presented in a Seeking Alpha piece by Michael Ashton ("Tariffs Causing Inflation? Not So Fast") and related sources, dissecting the claims about tariffs' impact on inflation and examining alternative contributing factors.

Ashton’s core argument challenges the direct correlation often drawn between tariffs and inflation. He points out that while tariffs increase the cost of imported goods, this doesn't automatically translate into widespread price increases across the entire economy. The initial effect is a higher price for the tariffed good itself. However, whether that gets passed on to consumers – and at what rate – depends on several factors including market dynamics, competition, and the elasticity of demand.

The article highlights the concept of "absorbed tariffs." Companies facing import duties might choose to absorb those costs rather than pass them onto consumers, particularly if they operate in a competitive market where raising prices would risk losing customers. This absorption can significantly dampen or even negate the inflationary impact of tariffs. Ashton cites examples from various industries, demonstrating how businesses have absorbed tariff costs without significant price increases for consumers.

Furthermore, the analysis emphasizes that inflation is a multifaceted phenomenon driven by numerous factors beyond trade policy. The COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain disruptions, pent-up demand fueled by stimulus measures, and loose monetary policies all played substantial roles in the recent inflationary surge. Attributing inflation solely or primarily to tariffs ignores these other significant contributors.

The original article also delves into the complexities of measuring the impact of tariffs on consumer prices. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) methodology for calculating the Consumer Price Index (CPI) doesn't perfectly isolate the effect of tariffs. While import price indexes do track changes in imported goods’ costs, these are just one component within a broader basket of goods and services used to calculate overall inflation. Isolating the tariff impact requires complex modeling and assumptions that can be subject to debate.

The piece references research from economists like Michael Klein, who has consistently argued against a strong link between U.S. tariffs and inflation. Klein’s work suggests that while tariffs might have contributed marginally to price increases in specific sectors, their overall impact on headline inflation has been relatively small compared to other factors. He emphasizes the importance of considering global supply chain dynamics and broader macroeconomic conditions when assessing inflationary pressures.

Beyond the immediate price effects, the article also addresses the potential for retaliatory tariffs. When one country imposes tariffs, it often triggers retaliatory measures from trading partners. These reciprocal tariffs can further disrupt trade flows, increase costs for businesses, and potentially contribute to inflation – but they also complicate the analysis of any initial tariff’s impact. The ripple effects across global supply chains are difficult to isolate and quantify.

The argument isn't that tariffs have no effect on prices. They do increase the cost of some imported goods. However, the assertion that they are a primary driver of inflation is an oversimplification. The article advocates for a more nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between trade policy, global supply chains, and macroeconomic conditions when analyzing inflationary trends.

Looking at specific examples helps illustrate this point. The steel and aluminum tariffs imposed in 2018 did lead to higher prices for those metals. However, the impact on overall inflation was relatively modest because steel and aluminum represent a small portion of consumer spending. Moreover, domestic producers benefited from reduced competition, which could have offset some of the price increases.

The article concludes by urging policymakers and analysts to avoid simplistic narratives about tariffs and inflation. A comprehensive understanding requires considering the broader economic context, analyzing data with caution, and acknowledging the multiple factors contributing to inflationary pressures. Focusing solely on tariffs as a scapegoat for inflation risks obscuring the real drivers and hindering the development of effective policy responses. Instead, a holistic approach that addresses supply chain vulnerabilities, promotes competition, and manages monetary policy effectively is crucial for achieving price stability.

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The Tariff-Inflation Link: A Closer Look Beyond the Headlines