Casey Ames, a small business owner in Boise, Idaho, never imagined one government decision could threaten everything he built. Yet, President Trump’s sweeping 104% tariffs on Chinese imports have left him staring at a massive bill—and a possible shutdown.
Skyrocketing Costs Threaten Local Jobs
Ames runs Harkla, a 10-person company that designs developmental and sensory toys for children with special needs. While the products are crafted in Boise, they’re manufactured in three cities across China.
Last year, Ames paid just $26,000 in tariffs on his imports. With Trump’s new trade rules now in effect, he estimates that number will surge to at least $346,000—more than ten times the original cost.
“I may sound calm on the phone, but I’m really not,” Ames told reporters. “Real jobs are on the line. I’m scared for my team.”
Trump’s Tariffs Hit Small Businesses Hard
President Trump’s latest tariffs aim to promote domestic production by making imported goods more expensive. But for small business owners like Ames, the move feels like a direct hit.
He explained that most Americans don’t fully grasp how tariffs work. “People think foreign countries pay the tariffs,” he said. “But in reality, half of them are paid by U.S.-based businesses like mine.”
One of Harkla’s top sellers, a sensory swing, previously came with a $0 tariff. Now, each unit costs him an extra $16.67. The numbers add up fast.
No Quick Fix for Rising Expenses
Ames has considered moving production to the U.S. to escape the tariffs. However, he quickly found that wasn’t realistic. Domestic production would force him to charge more than most families could afford.
“We’ve looked into U.S. manufacturing multiple times,” he said. “Every time, the cost is higher than our current retail prices.”
With no affordable alternative, Ames says he may have to shut down Harkla’s physical product line. If that happens, he’ll focus on the company’s digital side—educational videos, online courses, and content for parents and therapists.
Tariffs Could Wipe Out Other Small Companies Too
Ames is not alone. Small business owners across America are voicing similar concerns. Many rely on international suppliers and face huge cost increases due to the tariffs.
These businesses often lack the scale or cash flow of big corporations, making it difficult to absorb sudden expenses.
“The digital side may survive,” Ames said. “But I fear we’ll have to let go of our product staff.”
Harkla’s Mission Is Now at Risk
Founded to support kids with sensory needs, Harkla sells items like weighted blankets, sensory swings, and stuffed animals designed to help children with autism, ADHD, and anxiety.
Ames, a father of two young kids, takes the mission personally. “We’re not just selling toys,” he said. “We’re helping families. This isn’t just business—it’s a purpose.”
What Comes Next?
While some in the government argue the tariffs will boost U.S. manufacturing in the long run, the short-term pain for small businesses is already evident.
For Ames, the future is uncertain. “We’re trying to figure out how to stay alive,” he said. “But these costs are impossible.”
As the tariff battle continues, entrepreneurs like Ames are pleading for relief—or at least some kind of plan to avoid collapsing under pressure.
Without it, they warn, the very businesses these policies claim to protect may not be around much longer.
