I was talking about how to make an easy pot roast, and the next minute we’re talking about an international trade war,” Emily Ley said.

Moreover, agreements with Britain and China have reduced overall tariff levels from recent highs, which will cut the revenue they raise. Levels will continue to fall as America inks more deals. Yet Mr Trump’s tariffs will still bring in large sums.

The higher taxes on imports will shrink Texas businesses’ profits and raise costs for consumers, business owners say.