Trade Truce Is Small Comfort to US Firms Facing Hefty Costs

President Donald Trump’s sudden move to lower tariffs on goods from China to 30% from 145% has thrown a lifeline to America’s small businesses who were running low on inventory — and cash.

But owners warn the reprieve will be limited.

Their caution goes like this: tariff rates remain sky high by historical levels and will keep pressuring profits. The 90-day window for a pause while negotiations continue offers little clarity on where the levies will ultimately settle, and Trump has warned they could soar again.

The time frame doesn’t offer much help, either. While existing inventory can be ...