U.S. President Trump meets with major retailers, including Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe's and Target, to discuss tariffs impacting import costs - Reuters

U.S. President Trump meets with major retailers, including Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe's and Target, to discuss tariffs impacting import costs - Reuters

U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with representatives from major retailers, including Walmart, Home Depot, Lowe's, and Target, to discuss the impact of broad tariffs on their businesses [1]. The meeting, set for Monday afternoon at the White House, will include discussions on the effects of tariffs, particularly those imposed on China, which are expected to increase costs for everyday consumer goods [1].

The White House official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed a Bloomberg report that the meeting would involve top executives from these retailers [1]. Walmart has confirmed that CEO Doug McMillon will attend the meeting [1]. These retailers, especially Walmart and Target, import a significant portion of their goods from overseas, with more than half of their imports coming from China [1]. The tariffs, including a 145% levy on China, are anticipated to elevate the costs for American consumers in the coming months [1].

Trump's tariff policies have had a substantial impact on various industries and have caused volatility in U.S. stock markets [1]. The S&P 500 index dropped by more than 3% on Monday, while the benchmark 10-year Treasury note and the U.S. dollar also faced downward pressure [1]. Trump's tariff announcements, including sweeping duties on dozens of countries, have been paused for a 90-day period, except for those on China [1].

Analysts are concerned that these retailers will experience a significant decline in their profit margins due to the tariffs [1]. Walmart shares have risen by less than 2% this year, while the other retailers have posted double-digit losses. Target has been the most affected, with a 32% decrease in its share price so far in 2025 [1].

Home Depot, Lowe's, and Target have not yet responded to requests for comment, while Walmart declined to comment on the meeting [1]. The meeting aims to address the immediate concerns of these retailers and potentially find ways to mitigate the adverse effects of the tariffs on their businesses and consumers.

References:
[1] https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/global-trends/trump-to-meet-major-retailers-to-discuss-tariffs-white-house-official-says/articleshow/120495631.cms?from=mdr
[2] https://www.newsmax.com/finance/streettalk/trump-walmart-home-depot/2025/04/21/id/1207711/