Trump Proposes Significant Furniture Import Tariffs to Boost U.S. Manufacturing

On Monday, President Donald Trump stated on Truth Social his intention to impose significant tariffs on furniture imports if the United States does not ensure domestic production. He noted: “Details to follow!!!”

According to him, last week he announced tariffs of 50% on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, as well as 30% on upholstered furniture, which are set to take effect during this week.

It is unclear how these tariffs would work, since tariffs are usually imposed on a product by country of origin, not by a specific supplier country. At the same time there is a prospect of tariffs that could depend on the supplying country.

“significant tariffs on any country that does not manufacture furniture in the U.S.”

The White House has yet to comment on this issue.

There are also statements about raising tariffs by mid-October.

In the context of import tariffs in the United States, furniture prices have been rising for several months amid restrictions from China and Vietnam – two leading suppliers of furniture products. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, both countries exported furniture and fittings for about $12 billion last year.

The Consumer Price Index indicates rising furniture costs: in July prices rose by 0.9%, in August by 0.3%; compared with August 2024, prices are up about 4.7%, the largest such increase in three years.

“completely lost the furniture business to China and other countries”

In this context, North Carolina could play a key role in determining which political force will control the Senate in the upcoming elections.

In addition to furniture, Trump also mentioned the possibility of imposing a 100% tariff on foreign films. Last week he said a 100% tariff on branded medicines (with exceptions) and a 25% tariff on trucks, to be implemented later this week.

All of this comes against the backdrop of expectations for a major Supreme Court case that will consider the legality of country-specific tariffs on the grounds of an economic emergency. If the court rules against the administration, businesses could be reimbursed for tariffs paid.

So far, tariffs tied to national security and separate legislation do not face similar legal challenges.

Prospects for the furniture market and trade tariffs

Expectations for further growth of the U.S. furniture market are rising amid potential revisions to trade rules and manufacturers’ responses to tariff changes. At the same time, consumers could see higher prices and changes in product assortment in the coming months, depending on how the new tariffs are applied and whether suppliers adjust.

In the financial and manufacturing sectors, analysts continue to assess potential consequences: reduced access to cheaper imported components, restructuring of supply chains, and potential inflows of investment into American manufacturing.