The global trade wars between the US and China have been escalating for years, and their impact is being felt across the country. The tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump have caused a significant increase in prices for imported goods, including those used in the beauty industry. A recent study found that 75% of small businesses in the US have been negatively impacted by the tariffs. The study also found that 60% of small businesses are struggling to absorb the increased costs without passing them on to consumers. One of the hardest hit businesses is Pink Noire Beauty Supply & Cosmetics, a small beauty supply store in Memphis. The store was founded by Chasity Monroe, who says it’s a safe space for Black women in her community. Pink Noire is a one-stop shop for hair care, skin care, and makeup, and it’s also a hub for the local Black community. The store’s products are mostly sourced from China, which has been hit hard by the tariffs. Monroe says that the price increases have been significant, with three to four price increases across the board on her brands. The tariffs have also affected the store’s ability to absorb the increased costs without passing them on to consumers. As a small business, Monroe says it’s difficult to absorb the costs of the tariffs without affecting the bottom line. She’s tried to absorb as much of the costs as possible, but she says that some of the costs have to be passed on to the consumer. Monroe is also concerned about the long-term impacts of the tariffs on local communities and Black businesses. She believes that the tariffs will have a disproportionate impact on Black businesses, which are already struggling to compete with larger corporations. The study found that 40% of Black-owned businesses are struggling to stay afloat, and 25% are at risk of failing. Monroe says that Pink Noire is not just a business, it’s a community pillar. She believes that the tariffs will have a devastating impact on the local community, and she’s concerned that it will lead to a loss of small businesses and jobs. The study also found that 60% of small businesses are looking for ways to diversify their supply chains to reduce their reliance on imported goods. Monroe is exploring domestic alternatives to her products, but she says that they are typically more expensive. She’s also concerned about the impact of the tariffs on the local economy and the availability of jobs. The study found that 70% of small businesses are concerned about the impact of the tariffs on their ability to create jobs. Monroe says that Pink Noire is not just a business, it’s a way of life.