Background on Key Participants
The United States President, Donald Trump, is set to meet with representatives from leading retailers later today to discuss the impact of large tariffs on their businesses, according to a White House official speaking on condition of anonymity. The meeting will include representatives from Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Target.
Tariff Concerns and Their Effect on Retailers
Trump’s trade policies have caused significant disruptions across various industries and exerted pressure on the U.S. stock markets, which have been volatile for several weeks due to his erratic movements.
- On April 2, Trump announced broad tariffs on numerous countries, later putting them on hold for a 90-day period, except those imposed on China, which faced the heaviest tariffs.
- More than half of Walmart and Target’s imports come from China, according to company figures. Home Depot and Lowe’s also source from the country.
Analysts are concerned that these retailers may experience a substantial hit to their profit margins due to the tariffs.
- Walmart’s stock has gained less than 2% in 2025, while all others have recorded double-digit losses.
- Target has been the most affected, with a 32% decline so far this year.
Retailer Responses to Tariff Concerns
Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Target did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Walmart declined to comment.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is meeting with President Trump? Representatives from Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Target.
- Why are they meeting? To discuss the impact of large tariffs on their businesses.
- Which countries are affected by these tariffs? Decreases include numerous countries, with China facing the heaviest tariffs except for a 90-day pause.
- How significant is the impact on these retailers’ profit margins? Analysts are concerned that these retailers may experience a substantial hit due to tariffs, with Walmart’s stock gaining less than 2% in 2025 and Target suffering a 32% decline so far this year.
