Trump Tariffs – How Trump’s Tariffs Could Hit Your Wallet – and the Economy A new analysis from Yale University’s Budget Lab is shedding light on the far-reaching economic consequences of Donald Trump’s proposed tariff policies. The findings suggest that if implemented, these tariffs will bring substantial costs to American households and the broader economy — with low-income families and key industries bearing the brunt 22-04-2025 - Archive
Trump Tariffs
Crude Oil Prices Trend
SIBUR Strengthens Petrochemical Partnership with China
Russia’s leading petrochemical company, SIBUR, is deepening its strategic ties with China, cementing a mutually beneficial relationship that reflects shifting global trade dynamics. This year, SIBUR transitioned most of its transactions with Chinese customers to yuan and expanded delivery routes across various regions of China.
A significant development in this partnership includes SIBUR’s upcoming supply of maleic anhydride (MAN) to the Chinese market. MAN is a key ingredient in producing synthetic fibers for pharmaceuticals and fiberglass-reinforced plastics. Trump Tariffs
Additionally, SIBUR continues to collaborate with China’s energy giant Sinopec on the Amur Gas Chemical Complex—a major facility under construction in Russia’s Far East. Once completed, the complex will produce large volumes of polyethylene and polypropylene, both of which are essential polymers used in countless everyday products.
China, as the world’s top importer and consumer of these polymers, relies heavily on such materials. Polyethylene is commonly found in plastic bags, food packaging, and cosmetic containers, while polypropylene is known for its durability and is used in automotive parts, appliances, and plastic furniture. Together, these two materials represent a global market worth over $200 billion annually.
With around 100,000 tons of petrochemical products shipped to Asia every month, SIBUR has proven to be a reliable supplier. The company has significantly increased its focus on Asia after Europe halted imports of Russian chemical products. Today, China accounts for roughly 80% of SIBUR’s total exports. Trump Tariffs
But the relationship goes beyond simple trade. In 2015–2016, Sinopec and the China Silk Road Fund acquired stakes in SIBUR, marking a deeper investment in the company’s future. When SIBUR launched its $9 billion ZapSib plant in Western Siberia, Sinopec took on the role of official distributor for polyethylene products in China—highlighting the scale and integration of this partnership.
Chinese workers also contributed to the construction of the ZapSib facility, underscoring the collaborative nature of the venture.
Despite global challenges, trade between Russia and China has remained strong. In just 11 months of 2022, their trade turnover surged by nearly one-third to $172 billion, according to Russian newspaper Kommersant.
While China may eventually become a net exporter of polymers, its proximity to Russia and demand for high-quality raw materials ensure that its partnership with SIBUR continues to thrive. Trump Tariffs
The Small Engine That Could: How Horse Powertrain is Reinventing Electric Cars
Horse Powertrain, a joint venture between Renault and Geely, is shaking up the EV landscape with an innovation that could change the game for automakers worldwide. Revealed at the 2025 Shanghai Motor Show, their new Future Hybrid Concept introduces a compact engine designed to transform fully electric cars into hybrids—without requiring a full redesign of the platform. Trump Tariffs
A Hybrid Twist for Electric Cars
Set to appear in production models by 2028, this compact powertrain combines an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, and a transmission into a single, integrated hybrid unit. The internal combustion engine is fuel-flexible, running on gasoline, ethanol, methanol, or synthetic fuels. When installed in an electric vehicle, it acts as a range extender—charging the battery on the go and significantly boosting driving range.
Minimal Modifications, Major Impact
What makes this technology especially compelling is its compact size. The unit is engineered to fit onto the inner axle, replacing one of the electric drive units without interfering with the vehicle’s four-wheel-drive functionality. This means car manufacturers won’t need to overhaul their platforms or production lines to accommodate it.
According to Horse Powertrain, this approach reduces development costs and simplifies manufacturing, making it easier for automakers to offer both electric and hybrid options from the same platform. Trump Tariffs
A Smart Pivot in a Shifting Market
Matias Giannini, CEO of Horse Powertrain, sums it up best:
“For over 10 years, it seemed electric vehicles were the only path to zero emissions. But today, we’re moving toward a more technologically neutral landscape. Our Future Hybrid Concept gives manufacturers the flexibility they need.”
As the market evolves and global emissions goals grow more complex, Horse Powertrain’s forward-thinking solution could help automakers stay agile—offering a cost-effective, low-impact path toward a more flexible future in mobility. Trump Tariffs
Supreme Group Acquires Thai JV Company
Thailand site to become strategic base for global innovation and manufacturing excellence
Supreme Group, a global leader in advanced material technologies and engineered product solutions, acquired full ownership in its joint venture company Supreme Feltol (Thailand) Company Limited following the acquisition of the remaining shareholding from minority shareholders. Supreme was already the majority shareholder in the venture, and this move brings the company under complete ownership of the Supreme Group. Trump Tariffs
With this transition marks a significant step in the group’s long-term vision for Thailand as a strategic base for regional innovation and manufacturing excellence.
Established in 2019, the company has rapidly evolved to become a trusted manufacturer of Interior Trims and NVH components for leading automotive OEMs. Operating from its modern facility in Rayong, Thaialnd the company has earned a reputation for quality, agility, and customer-centricity.
“Taking full ownership enables us to bring in Supreme Group’s global technologies, material innovations, and design capabilities to support the evolving needs of this region,” said says Kavrie, Managing Director, Supreme Group. “We believe Thailand is strategically positioned to become a significant innovation and manufacturing hub for our Group in the South East Asia region.” Trump Tariffs
As part of the transition, Supreme Fostreon will benefit from deeper integration into the group’s global ecosystem of material science, design, and engineering. With a focus on light weighting, sustainability, and customer co-development, the company is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to the next generation of mobility solutions.
“With a strong foundation and a capable team, this transition allows us to better align with global customers, invest in scalable growth, and strengthen our regional partnerships,” says Manoj Swain, Director – International Operations at Supreme Group. “We look forward to engaging with our customers in the coming weeks to share our broader vision.”
Over the past few years, Supreme Group has played a hands-on role in leading the Thailand company’s strategy, execution, and customer engagement. The company’s leadership and operations will continue seamlessly, ensuring continuity, stability, and consistent service for customers and partners. Trump Tariffs
The company has also received several national recognitions over the past year that underscore its commitment to operations excellence. In late 2023, Supreme Fostreon achieved FORD Q1 Certification and was honoured with the Top Supplier Award by AAT, recognising its consistent delivery, product quality, and performance standards. In 2024, in its debut year of participation, the company received the Silver Award at the prestigious TPA Thailand 5S Awards, standing out among 18 national finalists. Additionally, Supreme Fostreon earned the Gold Level Award from Thailand’s Ministry of Labour for Excellence in Occupational Safety and Health, further affirming its best-in-class workplace practices and safety culture.
Looking ahead, Supreme Fostreon is entering a new phase of growth with significant investments in R&D, advanced material development, and product innovation. The company is also establishing a world-class Experience Centre in Thailand that will be designed to enhance customer collaboration, enable co-development initiatives, and showcase cutting-edge technologies from across the group’s global network.
PET Recycling Facility Begins Operations in Bharatpur
A new PET recycling facility has officially started operations in Jagannath Chowk, Bharatpur Metropolitan City-4, bringing a significant boost to Nepal’s recycling efforts.
The plant, developed under Project CAP (Collaborative Approach for Preventing Plastic Leakages in Rivers of Nepal), is the first of its kind in the country to recycle green and colored plastic bottles—materials that were previously not processed domestically. Trump Tariffs
Rs 13 Million Facility Launches in Test Phase
Established by Creasion Ventures Inc. Pvt. Ltd., the recycling facility was built at a cost of approximately Rs 13 million.
Currently in its test phase, the plant is operating at 30% capacity and has already employed 19 people. Full operations are expected within a month, at which point the workforce will grow to around 35 employees, with potential to increase to 45–50 as the plant begins producing export-ready materials.
A 10-Year Commitment to Circular Economy
The factory is set up on one bigha of leased land for a 10-year term. It sources plastic bottles from across Nepal, with a strong emphasis on collecting waste from rivers and water bodies.
With an estimated 20,000 tons of plastic entering Nepal’s rivers each year, the facility aims to tackle pollution at its source. By recycling this waste, the plant supports the development of a circular economy—where materials are reused and repurposed instead of discarded. Trump Tariffs
Empowering Local Communities
The initiative is also having a social impact. Members of the indigenous Bote community are actively involved in collecting riverine plastic waste. They are now earning supplemental income by selling the plastic they gather to the facility, creating new livelihood opportunities alongside environmental action.
A Promising Step for Sustainability in Nepal
As the facility moves toward full-scale operation, it stands as a model for sustainable development, blending environmental protection with community empowerment and economic opportunity.
Stay tuned for updates as Bharatpur’s PET recycling facility ramps up its impact in the coming months. Trump Tariffs
How Trump’s Tariffs Could Hit Your Wallet – and the Economy
A new analysis from Yale University’s Budget Lab is shedding light on the far-reaching economic consequences of Donald Trump’s proposed tariff policies. The findings suggest that if implemented, these tariffs will bring substantial costs to American households and the broader economy — with low-income families and key industries bearing the brunt.
A Sharp Rise in Tariff Rates
Following the suspension of major tariffs on April 9, Trump announced a 10% base tariff on most trade partners, alongside a steep 145% tariff on goods from China. The Yale Budget Lab analyzed the cumulative impact of these measures, estimating that the average American consumer will face an effective tariff rate of 27% — the highest in over a century, not seen since 1903. Trump Tariffs
Even when factoring in changes in consumption behavior, the adjusted average remains high at 18.5%, surpassing levels last recorded during the Great Depression in 1933.
Real Costs for Everyday Americans
So, what does this mean in real terms for American families? According to the analysis, the price level in 2025 is projected to rise by 2.9%, effectively costing the average household $4,700 in 2024 alone.
Low-income households will feel this pain most acutely. Initially, these families may experience a $2,100 loss, increasing to $2,700 after adjusting for changes in consumer and business behavior. For many, this could mean difficult choices around everyday essentials.
Apparel and Textiles: A Hotspot for Price Hikes
One of the most affected sectors will be apparel and textiles. The analysis forecasts that clothing prices could spike by a staggering 64% in the short term. Even in the long term, after market adjustments, prices are expected to remain 27% higher than current levels. For American families already budgeting tightly, this could mean rethinking basic purchases like school clothes or winter jackets. Trump Tariffs
GDP and Jobs Take a Hit
The impact doesn’t stop with higher prices. Yale’s Budget Lab predicts that the broader U.S. economy will slow under the weight of these tariffs. Real GDP growth is expected to drop by 1.1 percentage points in 2025, with a long-term annual economic loss of 0.6% — equivalent to $170 billion per year in today’s dollars.
In addition, the labor market will feel the strain. Unemployment is expected to rise by 0.6 percentage points, and payroll employment could fall by 740,000 jobs by the end of 2025. These numbers point to a potentially slower, less stable economic environment for workers across the country.
Tariffs Will Generate Revenue — But at What Cost?
From a fiscal perspective, the tariffs may seem like a boon: between 2026 and 2035, they are projected to raise $2.4 trillion in revenue. However, these costs will be shouldered by importers — who are almost certain to pass the burden onto consumers through price increases. This means that while the government collects more money, it may come at the expense of household budgets and overall economic growth. Trump Tariffs
Final Thoughts
While tariffs are often framed as a tool to protect American industry, this analysis highlights the complex and far-reaching effects such policies can have on the economy. From higher prices at the store to fewer job opportunities and slowed economic growth, the consequences are likely to be felt by everyone — especially those who can least afford it.
As trade policies become a central topic in the 2024 election cycle, these findings from Yale’s Budget Lab may play a critical role in shaping public understanding and debate.
Airtech Acquires UK-Based Cosmotec Nonwovens from Cha Technologies
Strategic deal strengthens Airtech’s European footprint and nonwoven capabilities.
Airtech Advanced Materials Group, a global manufacturer headquartered in Huntington Beach, California, has acquired Cosmotec Nonwovens, a UK-based subsidiary of Cha Technologies Group. The transaction was advised by Headpoint, a specialist in cross-border M&A for the manufacturing sector.
A Strategic Match
Cosmotec Nonwovens operates from an eight-acre site in Blackburn, a town with deep roots in textile manufacturing. The company is known for producing high-quality needle-punch and air-bonded nonwoven textiles that serve key sectors including geotextiles, filtration, construction, and automotive.
By joining forces with Airtech, Cosmotec gains access to a global platform that will allow it to scale operations and expand its international reach. For Airtech, the acquisition enhances its nonwoven production capabilities and strengthens its presence in Europe. Trump Tariffs
Expanding Airtech’s Global Platform
Airtech Advanced Materials Group serves a wide range of industries—from aerospace and composites to automotive and defense—with operations across the US, Europe, and Asia.
This acquisition provides Airtech with Cosmotec’s niche product expertise, fast lead times, and a strong UK manufacturing base. The move is expected to generate immediate operational synergies and broaden Airtech’s product offerings for global customers.
Expert Guidance from Headpoint
Headpoint played a key role in advising Cha Technologies on the deal. Based in Switzerland, Cha Technologies Group is a diversified global conglomerate with interests spanning property, technology, textiles, finance, and healthcare. Trump Tariffs
Reflecting on the transaction, Jacques Boubal, Group CEO of Cha Technologies, shared:
“Headpoint assisted us in this process with great professionalism and delivered a successful sale of Cosmotec to an ideal international strategic buyer in Airtech. Communication with Headpoint was always constructive, and the team was readily available and responsive to our needs, driving the deal to completion.”
A Win-Win for All Parties
The acquisition marks a significant step forward for both companies. Airtech reinforces its growth strategy in specialist materials, while Cosmotec gains the backing of a global partner to take its high-quality products to new markets.
Stay tuned for more updates as the integration progresses and new opportunities unfold for both organizations.
