Donald Trump’s tariffs could nip South Carolina florist’s business – and his daughter’s Guangdong trip – in the bud
- Smaller US businesses have greatly increased ties with Chinese companies in past two decades
- New tariffs could hit Chinese products ranging from toys to hair brushes
Mike Green, who sells artificial flowers made of fabric and plastic, is one of countless small American business owners caught up in a trade war that threatens not only their livelihoods, but deep friendships and ties built over years with Chinese business partners.
Much of Green’s business at Palmetto Designs International in Spartanburg, South Carolina, depends on China, by far the biggest US source for artificial flowers. Manufacturers in Guangdong province make the polyester and other decorative flowers and greenery arrangements that Palmetto sells to big-box retailers in the US.
But these ties extend beyond money.
Green and his family have become fascinated with all things China. Mooncakes and red packets make their way to the Greens’ postbox each winter and autumn. His eldest daughter plans a double major in Mandarin and chemistry when she starts college this year.
And when each of his five children turn 13, they get a gift of travelling with their father to the Guangdong plants that churn out the flowers that help pay for everything from their trainers to school clothes.