A tariff is an added charge at the border; who ultimately bears the cost can differ from who sends the payment.
01
Go deeper
In the United States, importers are responsible for applicable duties. Costs may be shared through higher buyer prices, lower seller prices or narrower business margins. The outcome depends on competition and alternatives.
02
Make it concrete
Hypothetical illustration. Hypothetically, a 10% duty on a $100 customs value adds $10 before other charges; the final retail-price change need not be $10.
03
When you read a headline
The legal payer and the economic burden are different. Check coverage, exemptions and effective dates.