Many people in US puzzled by self-inflicted wounds to economy

The way the tariffs had been applied had greatly harmed his business. "It's decided by the Trump administration alone without negotiations. We are not given time to prepare or plan. The guideline is unclear, and the officials in the Trump administration are sending out different signals," he said, adding confusion over tariff negotiations meant business people "just don't know what to expect".

To handle the uncertainty, Daniel said he is only supplying existing customers on a limited basis from his current inventory.

MTU, a Rolls-Royce power solution brand that provides engines for industrial and defense applications, has issued a notice saying it has temporarily stopped quoting prices due to uncertainty about costs.

"Suddenly a large number of businesses can't quote prices, can't accept new orders, and can't ship products. It does great harm to the economic output," Daniel said.

Rena Li in Los Angeles contributed to this story.