Chattanooga, October 7, 2025
News Summary
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, in collaboration with the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce, will host a panel discussion on the effects of recent tariffs on the local economy. Scheduled for November, the event will feature prominent panelists discussing the implications of tariffs on supply chains and global trade. Attendance is free, but registration is requested. The discussion is particularly relevant as recent tariff hikes have raised concerns about economic growth in manufacturing-centric cities like Chattanooga.
Chattanooga is set to host a panel discussion examining the effects of recent tariffs on its local economy. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC) will co-host the event, titled “Navigating Tariffs: From City Hall to Global Markets,” in partnership with the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce’s International Business Council. The panel will take place on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM at Fletcher Hall, Room 105, located at 601 McCallie Avenue on the UTC campus.
The discussion will be moderated by Adam Myers, Vice President of Economic Development at the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce. Key panelists include Dr. Claudia Williamson Kramer, Probasco Chair at UTC; Tim Kelly, Mayor of Chattanooga; and Craig Fuller, CEO of FreightWaves. They are expected to delve into the broad implications of tariffs on supply chains, global trade, and the local economy.
The event agenda outlines an arrival and networking session from 5:00 PM to 5:30 PM, followed by the panel discussion from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Attendance is free and open to the public, though registration is requested for those interested in participating.
Recent developments highlight the urgency of this discussion. President Donald Trump has instituted significant new tariffs, raising the average U.S. import tax to approximately 18.6%, which is the highest level since 1933. UTC economist Howard Wall has articulated concerns about these tariffs, arguing they deplete consumer wealth and are detrimental to economic growth, particularly in manufacturing-centric cities like Chattanooga that might not benefit from the rising costs associated with these tariffs.
Recent reports from a German newspaper suggest that Audi, a notable automaker, is looking into establishing a new plant in Chattanooga, potentially as a strategic move in light of the tariffs. This facility could represent a $4 billion investment and significantly increase employment at Enterprise South Park, which is already home to Volkswagen, employing 5,500 workers. The United Auto Workers union is currently engaged in negotiations over employee benefits at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant, which may also influence the timing and decision-making linked to Audi’s possible expansion.
In light of the economic climate, local business owners are starting to adapt to changing market dynamics. Michelle Kuffrey, the owner of a second-hand shop in Chattanooga, has observed a trend where vintage and second-hand stores may become more attractive to consumers looking to save money amid tariff-driven fluctuations. Meanwhile, local mechanics, like Richmond Blackwell, are advising customers to repair their vehicles sooner rather than later, anticipating increases in the costs of imported car parts due to these tariffs.
The Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce, representing over 1,000 business owners, suggests that the consequences of tariffs could have widespread effects on the local community and economy, affecting consumer behavior and business operations alike. The November panel aims to inform the public on these vital economic issues and provide insights into how Chattanooga can navigate the ongoing challenges surrounding tariffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What event is UTC hosting?
The event is titled “Navigating Tariffs: From City Hall to Global Markets,” focusing on the impact of tariffs on Chattanooga’s economy.
When will the panel discussion take place?
The panel discussion will occur on Monday, November 3, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM.
Where is the event located?
The event will be held at Fletcher Hall, Room 105, located at 601 McCallie Avenue on the UTC campus.
Is there a cost to attend the panel discussion?
Attendance is free and open to the public, but registration is requested.
Who will moderate the discussion?
The discussion will be moderated by Adam Myers, Vice President of Economic Development at the Chattanooga Chamber of Commerce.
What are some topics that will be discussed during the panel?
Panelists will cover how tariffs impact supply chains, global trade, and the local economy in Chattanooga.
Key Features of the Panel Discussion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Title | Navigating Tariffs: From City Hall to Global Markets |
| Date | November 3, 2025 |
| Time | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM |
| Location | Fletcher Hall, Room 105, UTC Campus |
| Panel Moderator | Adam Myers |
| Panelists | Dr. Claudia Williamson Kramer, Tim Kelly, Craig Fuller |
| Key Discussion Topics | Impact of tariffs on supply chains, global trade, local economy |
| Cost | Free, registration requested |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Impact of Tariffs on Chattanooga Manufacturers
- News Channel 9: Audi Considers Chattanooga for New Plant
- Times Free Press: Trade Rebounds at Georgia’s Ports
- News Channel 9: Legal Tug-of-War Over Tariffs
- News Channel 9: Mechanic Urges Early Repairs Before Tariffs
- Wikipedia: Tariffs in the United States
- Google Search: Impact of Tariffs
- Google Scholar: Tariff Impact on Economy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tariff
- Google News: Tariff Impact
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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