​Rising Uncertainty 
More than half of respondents (58%) believe the South Sound is headed in the wrong direction, citing economic instability and policy concerns as key reasons. While 24% still feel optimistic, the overall tone of the responses points to a business community feeling squeezed by external pressures, especially trade. ​

“Members of our organization and the broader trade community are facing significant challenges in today’s rapidly shifting global trade environment,” said Michael Fowler, Executive Director of the World Trade Center Tacoma. “At WTC Tacoma, we remain committed to supporting our members and the community by actively collaborating with our partners to provide timely updates and actionable insights. Our goal is to help businesses navigate the evolving tariff landscape."

​South Sound businesses are asking for stability, predictability, and a seat at the trade table. They’re adapting as best they can, but the Chamber’s role as an advocate for clear, business-friendly policy is more important than ever. ​​​

“We know our local businesses are already navigating enough challenges—rising costs, workforce pressures, and ongoing recovery. New and shifting tariffs add another layer of uncertainty, and we want our members to know they’re not alone,” said Andrea H. Reay, President & CEO, Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber. “The Chamber is here to help you plan, access resources, and advocate on your behalf at every level. When policy changes impact Main Street, we respond with action and support. We advocate so you can operate.”  ​

This month the White House announced its comprehensive tariff policy -- with a baseline tariff of 10% on almost all imports -- and new reciprocal tariffs. Goods from China, by far the biggest target, are now subject to at least a 104% tariff. Trump tacked on higher tariffs than initially announced after Beijing didn’t back off its promise to impose 34% retaliatory tariffs.

The reciprocal rates were calculated by dividing a country’s trade deficit with the US by its exports to the country and multiplying by half. They range from 11% to 50%, and barring Mexico and Canada, America’s other top trading partners were not spared. The EU was hit with a 20% reciprocal tariff, China at 34%, Japan at 24%, Vietnam at 46% and South Korea at 25%.

Though the executive branch announced it was pausing higher targeted tariffs for 90 days, our Chamber understands this creates greater uncertainty for businesses. 
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• Historically America’s free-trade agreements (FTAs) have been successful at removing foreign trade barriers and have generated remarkable benefits for American workers, farmers, and companies:    
• While the 20 countries with which the United States has FTAs in force represent just 6% of the world’s non-U.S. population, those countries regularly purchase nearly half of all U.S. exports.   
• On a per capita basis, those 20 countries purchase 14 times more U.S.-made goods and services than other countries. In other words, FTAs can make big export markets even out of small economies.  
• Further, U.S. exports to new FTA partner countries have grown roughly three times as rapidly on average in the five-year period following the agreement’s entry-into-force as the global rate of growth for U.S. exports, as U.S. Chamber research shows.   

But the recent surge in tariffs introduces serious challenges for businesses of all sizes. With baseline import duties at 10%, reaching as high as a 125% tariff on Chinese goods in recent weeks, and a 20%+ tariff on products from the European Union, the cost of doing business is rising, retaliatory tariffs are mounting, and market volatility is on the rise.​  

From the U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Pro-Growth Trade Policy 
In alignment with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber prioritizes the goal of achieving at least 3% economic growth annually and cementing in place policies that will support faster economic growth over the long term. 
 
“What we have heard from business of all sizes, across all industries, from around the country is that these broad tariffs are a tax increase that will raise prices for American consumers and hurt the economy,” said Neil Bradley, Chief Policy Officer at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “We urge policymakers to instead focus efforts on accelerating the pro-growth agenda of extending our current tax policy, re-balancing regulations, and unleashing the full potential of American energy – all policies that will grow the economy and create more opportunities for Americans. In addition, the U.S. should begin negotiating new trade agreements to open up more markets for businesses and workers which will support more American jobs and lower prices.” 

Read recent background information on reciprocal tariffs from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. 

Stephanie Housden dreamt of opening Sober AF Zero Proof Bottle Shop for a long time, and her dream came true on April 4, 2025.
The Chamber was able to celebrate the soft opening on April 3, 2025, with a ribbon cutting and the doors opened to the tasting room on April 4, 2025.

Walking into Sober AF is like stepping back into the ‘90s with a rainbow of neon colors, funky prints, quirky furniture, and a Lisa Frank-esque jaguar mascot named ‘Mischievous’ painted on the wall. Owner Stephanie Housden said the interior was inspired by her teenage self's bedroom, and she loves how it turned out.

Sober AF offers a wide variety of beverages, “with a more expansive selection than your local grocery store or a liquor store” Housden shared. The Chamber’s Board of Directors Chairwoman Kierra Phifer shared, “[Stephanie] is right; this is way better than the one endcap [of Non-Alcoholic beverages] at Total Wine and More.” Phifer herself is six-years sober and was appreciative of Sober AF’s opening.

The overarching message from Sober AF is that ‘no alcohol doesn’t mean no fun’. Each speaker at the ceremony touched on that point as well. It is open for anyone who is sober, sober curious, or just wants to take a night off from drinking. A perfect place for expecting mothers, athletes, those in recovery, and more.

Austin Miller with Theory Real Estate spoke about the building – the first piece of property Theory owned on South Tacoma Way. He was overjoyed that his friends [the Housdens] chose this location to open Sober AF.

Tacoma City Councilmembers Diaz and Scott shared their delight for Sober AF; both congratulating Housden for investing in this area of Pierce County and adding a new element to the f South Tacoma business area.

After the actual cutting of the ribbon, Housden poured some bubbly (non-alcoholic, of course!) for folks to toast and wish Sober AF a long and happy journey.

Please join us in extending that wish and be sure to stop by Sober AF if you want to have a fun night without the negative consequences attached.

If you want to learn more about Sober AF Zero Proof Bottle Shop, you can follow it on social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. The tasting room is located at 5222 S Tacoma Way Tacoma WA, 98409.

Chamber Board Chairwoman, Kierra Phifer, kicked the celebration off with a brief introduction before attendees heard from CEO & Founder of King’s Dream Business Consulting, Jawan Harris.

Harris reflected on the initial demand of King’s Dream being sourced from its online presence, having only been founded a year before the COVID-19 pandemic. Many – if not all – small business owners needed the support and steadfast help that Harris and his team provides. Since it proved to be a necessity online, Harris knew that a physical location was the next milestone for King’s Dream.
 
Mayor Woodards reminded guests of how important it is for businesses to help other businesses, like King’s Dream, but especially in today’s climate because businesses are finding themselves stuck between a rock and hard place.
 
“I didn’t mean for this to turn so serious, when we’re supposed to be celebrating this grand opening, but I feel compelled to make sure you [Jawan] know just how important the work you are doing is,” said the Mayor.
 
After meaningful messages had been delivered, the ribbon was cut, and attendees were invited to sign the the ribbon and create a future momento for the business. The Chamber was very grateful to be a part of this celebration for King’s Dream Business Consulting. Please join us in welcoming King’s Dream to downtown Tacoma!
 
If you want to learn more about King’s Dream Business Consulting you can follow it on social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and TikTok.
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The headquarters is located at 702 Broadway Tacoma, WA 98402.