The ongoing series of tariffs, sometimes coupled with unpredictable retaliatory trade measures, has created considerable strain for businesses globally. Consequently, several major retailers in the United States have already raised prices or cautioned consumers about potential future increases.

In recent months, President Donald Trump implemented new import taxes affecting nearly all of America's trading partners and various sectors, with China, among other nations, responding with retaliatory tariffs; although some of the harshest measures were later suspended or reduced, the remaining tariffs continue to burden businesses.

This is because companies importing goods face tariffs, increasing their costs, which are often passed on to consumers. Trump argued his new tariffs would bring manufacturing and wealth back to the US. However, economists have long warned that such broad tariffs, impacting global supply chains, would raise prices on everything from groceries to car repairs.

Numerous businesses, along with their customers, have had to grapple with this reality. The following are some well-known retailers that have recently announced, or are expected to announce, price increases amidst the ongoing trade disputes.

Walmart became the latest retailer to join the list on Thursday, announcing that it was compelled to raise prices due to increased costs resulting from tariffs.

Despite Walmart's proactive steps to mitigate some tariff-related risks, with a significant portion of its goods manufactured in the US, the company remains vulnerable. Price increases began appearing on Walmart shelves in late April and have accelerated this month, company executives reported on Thursday. The most substantial impact, however, is anticipated in June and July, coinciding with the peak back-to-school shopping season.

John David Rainey, the company's Chief Financial Officer, highlighted the increasing costs of essential goods. For example, imported bananas from Costa Rica have risen from 50 to 54 cents per pound. He also suggested that Chinese-manufactured car seats, currently priced at $350 at Walmart, are likely to increase by an additional $100.

Rainey told the Associated Press that while they are programmed to maintain low prices, there's a limit to what they, or any other retailer, can absorb.

Mattel, the company that makes Barbie dolls and Hot Wheels cars, announced earlier this month that it would also need to raise prices "where necessary" to cover tax-related expenses.

This toy manufacturer produces 40% of its goods in China. They had warned of potential price increases by May 5th, before the US and China agreed to a 90-day delay to reduce most tariffs. However, tariffs on goods from China remain higher than before the recent increases.

At their recent earnings call, Mattel announced plans to move production of roughly 500 product lines from Chinese manufacturers to suppliers in other countries this year, a significant increase from the 280 products shifted last year. Furthermore, for certain high-demand toys, the company stated they would utilize factories in multiple countries to ensure sufficient supply.

In early May, Microsoft increased the recommended retail price of its Xbox gaming consoles and controllers globally; for example, the Xbox Series S now starts at $379.99 in the US, an $80 increase from its launch price of $299.99 in 2020, and the more powerful Xbox Series X will soon cost $599.99, a $100 rise from its previous price of $499.99.

"Microsoft acknowledged the challenges posed by these changes in an Xbox support update on May 1st, citing 'broader market conditions and increased development costs' rather than specifying taxes."

Following adjustments in the US, Microsoft has also changed Xbox pricing in Europe, the UK, and Australia. The company stated that further local updates will be rolled out to all other countries. Furthermore, Microsoft anticipates increasing the price of some new exclusive games to $79.99 in time for the holiday season.

Last month, major e-commerce companies Temu and Shein independently announced similar price increases, citing recent changes in international trade regulations and tariffs.

Towards the end of April, consumers noticed price increases on many goods, particularly leading up to May 2nd. This was due to the expiration of the de minimis rule, a tax exemption on low-value imports from China that online retailers had utilized for years. A recent agreement between the US and China offered some relief, but these products are still subject to tariffs. Low-value packages from China processed through the US Postal Service now face a 54% tax, reduced from the previous rate of 120%.

Even before this concession, Temu appeared to have shifted from shipping directly from China, instead utilizing existing warehouses within the US. The retailer, owned by Chinese e-commerce firm PDD Holdings, continues to promote a wide array of products from "local" warehouses, assuring US customers "no import fees." Meanwhile, Shein, based in Singapore, now displays a message at checkout stating: "Taxes are included in the price you pay, so you will not have to pay any extra fees upon delivery."

Stanley Black & Decker, the tool manufacturer, announced that after increasing prices in April, they plan to do so again between July and September due to higher taxes.

CEO Donald Allan, Jr. stated last month that they are accelerating supply chain adjustments and exploring all options to lessen the impact of taxes on consumers, while also needing to protect the business.

Executives at Procter & Gamble, a major consumer goods company with brands like Crest, Tide, and Charmin, have indicated they will likely pass on increased costs to consumers. Last month, P&G stated they were trying to minimise the impact of rising costs, including adjusting their supply chains to avoid tariffs. However, the company suggests customers could see price increases starting in July.