A tidal wave of tariffs and regulatory shake-ups is sending shockwaves through the e-commerce world, with a staggering 83% of industry executives fearing for their companies’ survival. That’s the grim warning from Swap’s latest Tariff Turmoil Report, which paints a bleak future for online businesses grappling with mounting costs and supply chain turmoil.
Of the 100 e-commerce and fulfillment execs surveyed, nearly 30% expect tariffs to hit their business hard in 2025, while another 53% brace for significant financial blows. And the pain won’t be short-lived: more than half predict the fallout will last at least three years.
To stay afloat, businesses are scrambling to shift supply chains (56%), adjust pricing (55%), and even stockpile goods (31%) before new tariffs take effect. But consumers won’t be spared since 64% of companies plan to pass at least a quarter of the added costs onto their customers.
And despite the looming crisis, 65% admit they’re unprepared, with most now rushing to consultants and new partnerships for survival strategies.
Juan Pellerano-Rendon, chief marketing officer at Swap, said: “The data is clear. Tariffs and regulatory shifts aren’t just a bump in the road for e-commerce companies, they’re a seismic shift. Companies that prioritise flexibility, cost mitigation, and strategic partnerships will be better positioned to survive and thrive in this evolving landscape.”
Proposed economic changes are already pushing some consumers to adjust their shopping habits. The research shows that 83% of respondents believe tariffs on imported goods will affect their future shopping decisions.