BAKER Nuradilla Hamdan is concerned about the ripple effects of the United States’ recent and impending tariffs on imports from several countries.

The 28-year-old single mother from Cheras worries that the rising costs of imported ingredients, such as butter, may eventually force her to raise the prices of her cakes.

“In my five years as a baker, I’ve learned that price increases can be unpredictable. I’m already paying more for butter and wheat flour, which means my cakes are becoming more expensive. But I can’t keep passing the cost onto my customers,” she says.

The US recently imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada, along with a 10% increase in duties on Chinese goods, which came into effect on March 4. US President Donald Trump has also announced reciprocal tariffs on the rest of the world, to come into effect on April 2.

This has raised concerns about the potential impact on Malaysian food security and affordability, particularly as Malaysia imports over 60% of its food needs.

Beyond price hikes, experts warn that escalating trade wars could fuel global protectionism. Adding to the uncertainty is the unpredictable nature of US tariff policies – just last week, Trump signed orders significantly expanding exemptions for goods from Canada and Mexico, leaving policymakers scrambling to adapt to shifting trade conditions. (Then at press time Trump threatened other new tariffs, including a 250% tax on Canada’s dairy products.)

Nevertheless, some Malaysian economic and geopolitical experts believe the new tariffs could indirectly benefit Malaysia if affected countries shift their trade focus to this region.

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