What consumer goods face increased costs from proposed US tariffs?

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Proposed US Tariffs Could Increase Costs for a Wide Range of Consumer Goods

Proposed US tariffs on an additional US$300 billion worth of Chinese imports are poised to raise the cost of numerous consumer products, including technology items, toys, and holiday decorations. These tariffs, which would add 25% to import costs, represent an expansion from previous measures that largely affected business-to-business imports, now directly impacting items purchased by households. The potential price hikes come as retailers prepare for the crucial year-end shopping season, with specific categories like cellphones, video game consoles, and children's safety equipment facing significant exposure.
Technology and Electronic Goods on the Tariff List

A substantial portion of the proposed tariffs targets electronic and technology products. Cellphones, for instance, saw US$43 billion in imports from China in 2018, representing over 80% of all US cellphone imports, making them highly susceptible to increased costs. Similarly, smart watches, smart speakers, and Bluetooth audio devices, with an estimated import value of up to US$17.9 billion from China in 2018, are also included in the tariff proposals.
Toys and Children's Products Face Higher Prices

The proposed tariffs extend to a broad array of toys and children's safety equipment. This includes items such as scooters and doll carriages, with US$11.9 billion in imports from China last year, accounting for approximately 85% of the US total for these specific toys. Furthermore, essential children's safety and play items, like high chairs, playpens, and swings, with at least US$800 million in imports, are also subject to the potential levies.
Holiday and Festive Items Could See Price Increases

The upcoming holiday season could be impacted by tariffs on festive goods. Christmas products, encompassing ornaments, nativity scenes, and Christmas tree lights, had at least US$2.3 billion in imports from China last year. Companies supplying these seasonal items have reportedly struggled to find alternative manufacturing sources outside of China for products like Santa hats and stockings, indicating potential cost pass-throughs to consumers.
Entertainment and Gaming Goods Included in Tariffs

Video game consoles are another significant category of consumer goods facing potential cost increases. Imports of these consoles from China amounted to US$5 billion last year, making up 98% of all US imports in this sector. The inclusion of these popular entertainment items in the proposed tariffs could affect a considerable segment of the consumer market.

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What consumer goods face increased costs from proposed US tariffs?

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