The US apparel and textiles industry is bracing for a significant impact from President Trump’s tariffs on Chinese imports. The 145% tariffs on goods from China and 10% tariffs on most other countries are being billed as a plan to boost domestic manufacturing, but business leaders warn that it will have the opposite effect.
Tariffs of this magnitude are unlikely to achieve Trump’s goal of bringing more manufacturing back to the US, according to industry experts. Instead, they risk driving businesses into bankruptcy and increasing prices for consumers.
Steven Borrelli, founder of Cuts Clothing, expressed concerns about the impact of tariffs on his business. “Every day this continues, more businesses will fail,” he warned. Todd Shelton, owner of a fashion brand with a factory in New Jersey, also fears that the higher duties and costs will lead to price increases for customers.
Industry leaders argue that tariffs will have far-reaching consequences, including inflationary pressures and reduced consumer confidence. “You’re hurting the very manufacturers you’re supposedly trying to help here,” said Nate Herman, senior vice-president of policy at the American Apparel & Footwear Association.
The impact on consumers is also being felt, with companies warning that prices will inevitably increase as a result of the tariffs. Lance Ruttenberg, owner of American Textile Company, described the situation as “not sophisticated economics.” The company’s supply chain relies heavily on China, and the new tariffs have made it impossible to source materials from the country.
The industry is also concerned about Trump’s other policies that are expected to hinder its growth. The administration’s plans to dismantle the Department of Education and reduce vocational training for young people are seen as a major threat to attracting American workers.
As the situation continues to unfold, industry leaders are urging caution and calling for a rethink of the tariffs. With businesses already feeling the pinch, it remains to be seen whether Trump’s plan will ultimately achieve its intended goal or lead to further economic disruption.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/25/china-tariffs-apparel-business-trump