GRAND RAPIDS — A report by a Grand Valley State University researcher shows West Michigan’s economy has remained flat but stable through October as the federal tariffs continue to challenge businesses.

Brian Long, director of supply management research at GVSU’s Seidman College of Business, said businesses and purchasing managers are still adjusting to the ongoing effects of the tariffs months into President Donald Trump’s second term.

“For the higher tariff costs, some firms have been able to get the seller to absorb all or most of the increase, and others have been able to pass the higher cost along,” Long said.

Michigan Map flag on American dollars illustration

“But some firms are stuck between a rock and a hard place. They can’t get the seller to absorb the increase, and they can’t

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