President-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs could have rapid implications for U.S. energy markets, according to trade policy experts. Trump has indicated he wants to implement tariffs on his first day in office, potentially using emergency powers granted by the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.

While the actual implementation of tariffs would take time, markets may react quickly to any announcements. This could lead to price increases on impacted goods, including energy products, even before tariffs officially go into effect.

Trade policy fellow Inu Manak notes that firms may shift production, stockpile goods, and raise prices in anticipation of tariffs. The effects could be felt "fairly soon" after any tariff announcement due to market reactions.

Some businesses have already warned of potential price hikes if broad tariffs are implemented. Walmart's CFO stated that consumer prices would likely increase in some cases under Trump's proposed tariffs.

Smaller energy firms may be particularly impacted, as they have less ability to stockpile products or shift operations compared to larger companies. This could lead them to raise prices more quickly.

While the full scale of Trump's tariff plans remains unclear, the energy sector should be prepared for potential market disruptions and price volatility in the near term as policies take shape. Companies and consumers alike may feel impacts soon after any major tariff announcements, even before official implementation.

As the new administration takes office, energy traders and analysts will be closely monitoring tariff developments and preparing for possible near-term effects on energy prices and trade flows.