Resilinc Special Report

October 2025 Tariffs Impact on Global Supply Chains

With new U.S. tariffs starting October 1, the tariffs impact on global supply chains is expected to affect multiple industries. The U.S. will impose tariffs of 25% on heavy trucks, 30% on upholstered furniture, 50% on cabinets and vanities, and up to 100% on branded pharmaceuticals. These measures are expected to increase costs in transportation, consumer goods, and healthcare. Pharmaceutical tariffs may raise medicine prices and affect availability, while higher truck costs could add to shipping and distribution expenses. Several trade partners are challenging the legality of the new measures, with Germany citing tariff limits under existing agreements. At the same time, the United States has reduced auto tariffs with the EU to 15%. To manage these shifts, companies should adjust supply chain strategies to account for higher costs, possible disputes, and continuing trade policy changes. Regular tariff exposure assessments will be necessary to support resilience in an uncertain environment.

Key Insights:
  • A 25% tariff on heavy trucks could potentially cascade into higher freight costs and pass-through price increases on groceries, retail goods, and industrial shipments
  • Tariffs up to 100% on branded pharmaceuticals risk doubling drug costs, straining insurers and public budgets, and reducing patient access
  • New tariffs on furniture and cabinetry at 30–50% will inflate homebuilding and renovation costs, raising prices for contractors, retailers, and consumers