How Trump’s tariffs could affect Fourth of July fireworks
Tariffs introduced by the Trump administration on Chinese fireworks are causing significant disruption for US suppliers and are expected to worsen by 2026.
With approximately 99 percent of US fireworks imported from China, businesses have struggled to navigate wildly fluctuating tariff rates, which have varied from 10 percent to 145 percent.
The industry anticipates severe challenges for the 250th anniversary of America’s founding in 2026, as high demand will coincide with ongoing supply chain issues and the impact of these tariffs.
Fireworks industry figures, including the National Fireworks Association, warn that low profit margins and production disruptions could jeopardize future celebratory displays.
The White House has defended the tariffs, asserting that patriotism should not rely on “cheap foreign-made firecrackers,” despite Trump's personal enjoyment of fireworks and a past exemption for them.