Häme Chamber of Commerce: The direction of the US trade policy should be followed with a cool head

The new CEO of the Häme Chamber of Commerce, Anne Vanhala, stands in front of a landscape wallpaper depicting a forest. — Anne Vanhala, CEO of the Häme Chamber of Commerce, says that companies’ cash registers and patience have been tested recently.

President Donald Trump’s speeches about customs fees do not scare Lahti-based steel industry company Stalatube, because they already have experience with customs.

– Now it’s good to keep calm and monitor the situation. If we go down the path of imposing tariffs, it will be harmful for everyone.

According to Vanhala, a possible customs fee would also increase the price of products manufactured in the United States that use parts from foreign subcontractors.

Many Hämä companies also operate in the US market, where in addition to exporting, they can have their own production plant or sales organization.

Donald Trump holds out a pen as he signs papers in the president's official office. — President Donald Trump signs his first executive orders since his inauguration at the White House.

Among other things, more than 90 percent of the production of Stalatube, which manufactures stainless steel pipe beams in Lahti, is exported abroad. In 2023, the company had a turnover of slightly more than 100 million euros.

– The steel tariffs have been in effect since Trump’s first term. We are not terribly worried, but we are monitoring the situation closely. I believe we will find ways if there are changes.

Companies are heading upwards

The Häme Chamber of Commerce published the results of its economic survey on Thursday. According to it, there is a divided atmosphere in Hämälä companies.

– Companies think more pessimistically than last fall. However, when asked about the turnover, number of employees and the decrease in the order book, the companies answered that they have bottomed out and are moving upwards, CEO Anne Vanhala says.

Vanhala sees positive signals at least in the defense industry and dual-use products, i.e. products that have civilian and defense use.

– Kanta-Hämee has strong expertise in the defense industry. The growing importance of the Arctic region can bring opportunities, but it requires a new kind of thinking and business development.