World Economic Forum attendees in Davos expressed growing concerns about President Donald Trump’s proposed tariff policies, warning of potential economic disruptions and uncertainty as he begins his second term.

At the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, attendees expressed apprehension about the potential economic uncertainties stemming from the Trump administration’s proposed tariff policies.

President Donald Trump, sworn in for a second term on Monday, has pledged to impose additional tariffs on various trading partners. Critics fear this approach could burden American businesses and strain international trade relationships.

"I think he's proposing lots of tariffs. We'll see how much of that actually plays out," said Andy Merrill, partner at Prosek. "Often a lot of what he says turns out to be less dramatic than what he originally said."

Emily Gallagher, a WEF attendee from New York, highlighted the broader economic implications. "His love of tariffs is really going to affect the U.S. economy, imports, and exports, and definitely our relationships with other countries," she said.

Floriane Lavaud, senior partner at Withers, voiced concern over the rapid changes the administration might bring. "There’s going to be a lot of uncertainty. Recent statements have caused fear that things will move very quickly," she noted.

John Quelch, executive vice chancellor of Duke Kunshan University, pointed to Trump’s unpredictability. "President Trump brings a fresh perspective to almost every issue. And no one knows exactly what that perspective is," he said.

As the Trump administration’s policies begin to unfold, businesses and global leaders remain watchful of the potential ripple effects on the global economy.

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