What are the best sources of information and analysis on trade policies and tariffs for retail buyers?

1 Government websites

One of the first places to look for information and analysis on trade policies and tariffs is the official websites of the governments involved. For example, if you are buying from or selling to the US, you can check the websites of the US Trade Representative, the US Department of Commerce, and the US International Trade Commission. These websites provide updates on trade actions, investigations, negotiations, and agreements, as well as data and reports on trade flows, tariffs, and non-tariff barriers. You can also find information on trade remedies, such as antidumping and countervailing duties, that may affect your products.

2 Industry associations

Another source of information and analysis on trade policies and tariffs is the industry associations that represent your sector or subsector. For example, if you are a fashion retailer, you can consult the websites of the American Apparel and Footwear Association, the National Retail Federation, or the US Fashion Industry Association. These associations monitor and advocate for the interests of their members on trade issues, and often provide insights, opinions, and recommendations on trade policies and tariffs. They may also offer webinars, newsletters, or events where you can learn from experts and peers.

3 Trade media

A third source of information and analysis on trade policies and tariffs is the trade media that cover your industry or niche. For example, if you are a grocery retailer, you can read the trade publications of the Food Marketing Institute, the Grocery Manufacturers Association, or the Progressive Grocer. These publications report on the latest news, trends, and developments on trade issues that affect your sector, and often feature interviews, opinions, and case studies from industry leaders and analysts. They may also provide data, charts, and infographics that illustrate the impact of trade policies and tariffs on your market.

4 Research firms

A fourth source of information and analysis on trade policies and tariffs is the research firms that specialize in your industry or category. For example, if you are a beauty retailer, you can access the research reports of Euromonitor, Mintel, or NPD Group. These firms conduct market research and analysis on various aspects of your industry, including trade policies and tariffs. They may provide forecasts, scenarios, and strategies on how to adapt to changing trade conditions, as well as benchmarks, best practices, and success stories from other retailers.

5 Online platforms

A fifth source of information and analysis on trade policies and tariffs is the online platforms that aggregate and curate trade-related content from various sources. For example, you can use platforms such as TradeVistas, Trade Data Monitor, or Trade Map to access data, articles, videos, podcasts, and webinars on trade topics. These platforms allow you to customize your search, filter your results, and compare different countries, regions, products, and indicators. They may also offer interactive tools, such as calculators, simulators, or dashboards, that help you visualize and understand the effects of trade policies and tariffs on your business.

6 Professional networks

A sixth source of information and analysis on trade policies and tariffs is the professional networks that connect you with other retail buyers, suppliers, consultants, or experts. For example, you can join online communities, such as LinkedIn groups, Quora spaces, or Reddit forums, where you can ask questions, share insights, and exchange experiences on trade issues. You can also attend offline events, such as trade shows, conferences, or workshops, where you can network, learn, and collaborate with other professionals in your field. These networks can help you expand your knowledge, gain new perspectives, and discover new opportunities on trade matters.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?