ICYMI: WSJ Report — Global Trade War Hits New Jersey’s ‘Little India’
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By Adam Rizvi, The India Observer, TIO: BLOOMFIELD, N.J. — A new Wall Street Journal report lays bare the economic pain New Jersey’s small businesses are enduring as a result of former President Donald Trump’s tariff war with India — a policy proudly endorsed by Republican gubernatorial candidate Jack Ciattarelli.
Trump’s 50% tariffs on Indian imports are hammering the hundreds of small businesses that form the backbone of Middlesex County’s economy, particularly along Oak Tree Road in Edison and Iselin, known as “Little India.” Business owners say they are struggling to survive, with rising prices driving away customers and threatening closures.
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Mahesh Shah, vice chairman of the Indian Business Association, warned that the economic outlook is grim: “The economy here is plateauing or even going down. Smaller businesses may not survive.”
The Journal reported that when the cost of a 40-pound bag of Zebra basmati rice jumped from $50 to $60, Patel Brothers grocery was forced to raise its shelf price to $69.99. Jewelry stores are being hit even harder, with tariffs compounded by record-high gold prices. “Tariffs have been especially painful for jewelers like ours that sell by weight,” said Aqib Virani, whose family runs a jewelry shop in Edison.
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Rep. Mikie Sherrill, Democratic candidate for governor, has been on the ground listening to these concerns. During a recent luncheon at Moghul Express hosted by Mayor Sam Joshi, The India Observer’s Editor-in-Chief was present as local business owners directly shared their struggles with Sherrill. Earlier that day, TIO staff exclusively covered her visit to Patel Brothers, where Sherrill personally shopped for groceries — a moment we broadcast live on Facebook for our readers.
Mikie Sherrill was joined at Patel Brothers by Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, who is seeking re-election, Alisha Khan, a member of the South Brunswick Board of Education, who is also seeking re-election, along with her volunteer team. Additionally, Attorney Manu Rajwanshi, Esq., a founding member of the Desi Chamber of Commerce, and community activist from Islin also attended.
Later, numerous small business owners, including jewellers, clothing store owners, grocery store owners, and restaurant owner Satish Mehtani joined Mikie Sherrill at Mughal Express, where they engaged in in-depth discussions with her about their businesses issues.
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While Ciattarelli has doubled down on supporting Trump’s policies, even calling for “pain” for New Jerseyans, Sherrill has pledged to cut red tape, lower costs, and support small business growth across the state.
As tariffs continue to ripple through New Jersey’s immigrant and small business communities, the contrast in leadership is stark: Ciattarelli embraces economic pain, while Sherrill pledges relief and support.
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Curated by Humra Kidwai
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