As the days grow longer and temperatures begin to rise, Americans are gearing up for the cherished rituals of summer. This includes exciting excursions to the beach, relaxing days by the pool, and delicious backyard barbecues with family and friends. However, this year, thanks to President Donald Trump’s tariffs, these beloved summer activities may come with a higher price tag. A significant portion of the summer essentials that Americans rely on are imported from China, including a staggering 96 percent of barbecue grills and garden umbrellas, 80 percent of rubber footwear like flip-flops, and about one-third of women’s swimsuits.
As Americans search for new gear to ensure a carefree vacation, they may encounter inflated prices and potential supply disruptions. This comes even as U.S. and Chinese officials prepare for trade talks scheduled for this weekend in Switzerland. Unfortunately, the negotiations are expected to be lengthy and challenging, and any potential agreements may not arrive in time to prevent summer price increases.
Many Americans are already feeling the effects of these disruptions, particularly those shopping on popular Chinese retail platforms like Shein and Temu. Cassie Medina, a self-identified millennial mom from Texas, expressed her frustration on TikTok, stating, “All I’m trying to do is order these bathing suits fam. Stop with the tariffs! Stop!”
The confusion and panic among small Chinese exporters, who have built their businesses around providing summer fun to U.S. consumers, is palpable. Li Xianrong, who operates a factory in Fujian province producing swimsuits and wetsuits, lamented, “We sell to Americans, Americans like it, we make money, and they have a happy holiday. Isn’t it killing two birds with one stone? Why should they make everyone feel bad?”
The looming price increases for summer goods are just a part of the broader economic turmoil sparked by the ongoing trade war between Washington and Beijing. Since Trump imposed a minimum 145 percent tariff on all Chinese goods last month, U.S. consumers have faced sudden price hikes and supply chain issues affecting essential products such as medications, electronics, and cosmetics. The actual impact these tariffs will have on retail prices in the U.S. remains uncertain.
While some larger retailers may have stocked up on inventory before the tariffs took effect, allowing them to absorb the added costs, others are bracing for shipment delays, shortages, and increased prices on items like swim trunks and sandals. Vipe Desai, executive director of the Surf Industry Members Association, warns that consumers may start to notice these issues as soon as Memorial Day, and he anticipates that conditions will worsen as summer progresses. “People are going to make some tough choices as to what they are going to spend money on, and to me, that is probably going to be the necessities,” he explained.
Swimsuits, in particular, highlight China’s dominance in the summer apparel market. Jinjiang, a city on China’s southeastern coast, produces nearly one-third of the world’s swimwear, thanks to its extensive infrastructure that includes fabric supply, machinery, and design all within the region. Jinjiang even hosts a “swimwear carnival,” featuring a fashion show, design competitions, and a seafood festival.
However, the tariffs threaten to disrupt this vibrant industry. Hong Zifeng, secretary general of the Jinjiang Swimsuit Industry Association, reports that many factories that depend on U.S. orders are facing significant challenges, leading to a state of “semi-paralysis.” Many exporters are now exploring innovative solutions to continue supplying American beachgoers with their favorite summer styles.
Some manufacturers are contemplating drastic changes, such as shifting their business models to circumvent the tariffs. Hong Jianku, a swimwear exporter, has begun redirecting his focus to European, Latin American, and Southeast Asian markets, as U.S. orders now constitute less than 7 percent of his business. “If the U.S. doesn’t want my stuff, then I will go find other buyers,” he stated, illustrating the shift in priorities among exporters.
The repercussions of the trade war extend beyond swimwear. Americans looking to purchase barbecue grills or garden umbrellas for summer gatherings will likely encounter higher prices as well. Exporters of these products are reporting halted shipments and stalled production lines, leading to significant uncertainty. Lisa Xu, sales manager at Smartjoy Outdoor Living, noted, “Right now, our business is stopped. We cannot do anything — we are waiting.”
The elimination of the “de minimis” exemption on May 2 has further complicated matters for consumers. This tax loophole previously allowed Chinese e-commerce sellers to send packages worth less than $800 to the U.S. without incurring tariffs. As a result, Americans hoping to stock up on summer dresses and accessories through online platforms may also face increased costs or limited availability.
Despite the challenges, many Chinese exporters are maintaining a positive outlook. The upcoming U.S.-China trade talks present an opportunity for both nations to de-escalate tensions. Li, the Fujian swimsuit manufacturer, expressed hope for positive developments, stating, “If decoupling is not what China and the U.S. want, then I’m hoping we’ll see more positive signs in May or June.”
However, even if a trade deal is reached, the summer may not see an end to higher prices and supply chain disruptions. Desai noted that large U.S. retailers need to prepare for back-to-school and holiday seasons, and the current trade climate complicates this process. “Memorial Day weekend is really when the first little snowball will start and then it will just continue on, through back to school, the winter holiday,” he concluded. “At this point, the damage has been done.”
