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08.18.25

The Pulse of Tariffs and Trade: Global Shifts, Local Impact

By Cale Dunwoody, Vice President of Public Policy, FMWF Chamber

Side by side image of a ship with shipping containers and a tractor plowing a field. Meant to depict how tariffs and trade policy affect Fargo-Moorhead.

 

 

Explore how tariffs and trade policy are reshaping the Fargo-Moorhead economy and why this conversation matters now more than ever.

From agriculture and manufacturing to small businesses and supply chains, trade touches every corner of our regional economy. Shifting global policies and federal legislation doesn’t just play out in Washington or on the world stage. It shows up in our fields, factories and storefronts.

At The Pulse of Tariffs and Trade, we’re breaking down the complex issues and explaining what they mean for us here in Fargo Moorhead West Fargo.

Here’s why this conversation couldn’t come at a better time.

  1. Trade Drives Our Regional Economy - North Dakota and Minnesota are export powerhouses. Our farmers, manufacturers and retailers depend on access to international markets to move products and stay competitive. Any changes in trade policy, especially around United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) or tariffs, can significantly affect pricing, demand and partnerships. 
  2. Global Conflicts Have Local Impacts - Foreign policy decisions and international conflicts can disrupt supply chains, increase costs and limit availability of materials. From delays in equipment to shifts in pricing, these disruptions hit close to home for producers and businesses alike. 
  3. The Rules Are Changing - There are new trade deals on the table, legislation under review and policy conversations that could reshape how we buy, sell and do business globally. Business leaders need to understand these shifts to make informed decisions and advocate where needed. 
  4. Local Industries Need a Seat at the Table - If we want our region to grow and thrive, our voices must be part of national and international conversations. This event brings together leaders across industry sectors to elevate regional perspectives and strengthen our collective understanding. 
  5. You’ll Walk Away with Real-World Perspective - You’ll hear from experts like John Kirchner from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, who work at the intersection of policy and business. You’ll also gain insights from regional voices, interactive polling and discussion designed to connect global trade policy to your day-to-day business reality. 

A special thank you to Xcel Energy for sponsoring The Pulse of Tariffs and Trade. Their support helps make these important conversations possible, connecting regional leaders with national experts to navigate complex economic issues.

Global trade policy may feel far away, but its impact is here at home—in our fields, factories and storefronts. Understanding these shifts and knowing how to respond is critical for every business leader in the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo region.

Don’t miss your opportunity to gain insights, ask questions, and connect with peers and experts who are helping shape the future of our regional economy.

The Pulse of Tariffs and Trade  
Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025 
8 to 9 a.m. 
Microsoft Commons, Fargo 

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect global trade to local strategy. 

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