Kerry councillors call for SME support as local businesses threatened with US tariffs

By Alastair Tibbs, The Kerryman

A Kerry councillor has called on the government to support the country’s SMEs as the sector is hit with US tariffs.

Councillor Breandán Fitzgerald said the removal of the ‘de minimis’ rule threatens all of Kerry’s SME, hindering their access to key US markets.

Since August, the ‘de minimis’ rule, which allows parcels under €685 exported to the US to go tax-free, has been ended by the Trump administration.

While gift and small letters remain exempt, any goods worth more than €85 will face a 15 per cent tariff, payable by the US recipient before delivery.

Cllr Fitzgerald believes this will reduce demand for Irish goods and called on the government to shoulder some of the burden.

“Many of our Kerry businesses selling products like clothing, arts & crafts, jewellery, pottery or specialty foods will see their margins squeezed as customers hesitate to pay extra duties,” said Cllr Fitzgerald.

“Kerry SMEs that rely on online sales to US customers are disproportionately affected. They now must consider absorbing part of the tariff or offer bundled deals/discounts on goods and must now clearly state tariff obligations for all online sales to the US.”

Cllr Fitzgerald advocated for a combined government approach of grant assistance and advisory support. He also emphasised the importance of EU-level representation for Irish SMEs, urging the government to fight for the country’s small businesses in Europe.

“Without this our Kerry SMEs risk losing competitiveness and market share and this could seriously impact these businesses and their viability,” he said.

“Hopefully with proactive measures, we can help Kerry SMEs and safeguard jobs in Kerry.”