Tariffs
Earlier in 2025, The United States President Donald Trump imposed tariffs that significantly affected global imports and exports. As a result, consumer spending across the GCC has been strongly impacted. The global economy is becoming increasingly unstable, with IMF projections indicating rising unpredictability through to 2030.
As economies deteriorate, consumers with less disposable income expect better quality services for the lowest possible cost. Tariffs have affected the customer journey, as the final point of impact for any pricing change is the end user or customer.
GCC Vision 2030 strategies rely on steady economic expansion, diversified industries, and strong market competition, all of which function best under stable and predictable trade conditions. Tariffs create cost pressures that influence consumer spending and raise operational expenses across emerging sectors central to regional transformation.
As GCC economies continue building manufacturing, logistics, technology, and advanced services, higher tariffs risk slowing momentum by raising production costs and weakening demand for non-essential products.
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To achieve Vision 2030 targets, GCC governments need to balance global trade shifts with domestic competitiveness. Success will depend on managing tariff pressures through effective policy, developing local capabilities, and prioritising customer-focused approaches that maintain affordability and support long-term economic stability.
Increased price sensitivity requires stronger communication
Tariffs increase the cost of goods and services, which often results in higher prices for customers. In this environment, strong customer service becomes crucial. Clear communication helps explain why prices have changed, builds transparency, and supports realistic expectations. By keeping customers informed and engaged, organisations are better placed to maintain trust and loyalty during times of financial pressure.
Read More About Tariffs
Has tariffs changed your service users experience?
Recent tariff changes are reshaping service user experience in both direct and indirect ways. As organisations absorb higher costs and supply chain pressures, service users may face longer wait times, pricing adjustments, or changes in service delivery. Understanding these impacts is critical for maintaining trust and satisfaction in an increasingly constrained trade environment.