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Discuss Local Business Climate and Potential Impact Tariffs May have on Local Business Sectors
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To: Members of the Mayor's Economic Development Advisory Panel
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The federal government recently imposed significant tariffs on imported goods from multiple countries in an effort to reduce the U.S. trade deficit. In addition, some countries have imposed similar tariffs on U.S. exports, affecting demand for locally produced products.
This agenda item is presented for discussion purposes only, to understand possible implications for Alameda-based businesses. Many local commercial, research and development, and retail business sectors are reliant on supply chains involving export and import with foreign countries.
BACKGROUND
City staff recently attended a 2025 Economic Outlook, sponsored by the East Bay Economic Development Alliance (East Bay EDA), which included an extensive discussion on tariffs and their effects on the regional economy. Attached are copies of the presentations made by:
* Abby Snay, Deputy Secretary, Workforce Strategy, for the State of California's Labor & Workforce Development Agency; and
* Alexander Quinn, Senior Director, Northern California Research, JLL.
City staff also recently attended a webinar sponsored by SCORE: "How Tariffs Can Impact Your Business & How to Prepare." SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) is a non-profit organization that provides free business mentoring and educational resources to small businesses across the United States. They are a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The local SCORE office provided invaluable webinars and individual assistance to local businesses during the pandemic.
DISCUSSION
City staff have been hearing anecdotally how tariffs may potentially impact local restaurants, retailers, and other small businesses, such as with supply chain disruptions, pricing, or with other related economic uncertainties.
At the recent...
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