"Artificial Christmas tree sellers in the U.S. were thrown into turmoil earlier this year when the Trump administration announced punishing tariffs on Chinese imports, including threats of 145% duties. About 85% of the 20 million or so Christmas trees being sold in the U.S. annually are artificial, and of those, about 90% are made in China. So any such tariffs threatened to send Christmas tree prices much higher in a year in which American consumers have shown themselves to be cautious and frugal."
"The upshot, after those months of uncertainty, has been upward pressure of about 10% to 15% on what Americans are shelling out this year for their Christmas trees, according to leaders in the industry. And the bulk of artificial trees are in the $100 to $300 range, so those tariffs are translating into real dollars in what is already a stressful holiday season for those dealing with job losses or market volatility."
About 85% of roughly 20 million U.S. Christmas trees sold annually are artificial, and about 90% of those are made in China. Announced tariffs, including threats of 145% duties later reduced to about 20%, prompted some manufacturers to halt China production or move factories, producing supply uncertainty. The result has been upward pressure on retail prices of about 10–15%. Most artificial trees sell after November 1 and commonly cost $100–$300, so higher tariffs are affecting consumers' holiday budgets. Distributors report early-season softness and say promotions or price adjustments may be necessary to restore sales.
Read at Fortune
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