Trump Tariffs Raise Costs, Strain US Black Beauty Businesses

Black-owned hair salons across the U.S. are struggling due to rising tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on imports from China and Vietnam, countries that supply most Black beauty products. Prices for hair extensions and hair glue have surged dramatically, with hair from Vietnam increasing from $190 to $290 per package and glue from China nearly doubling from $8 to $14.99. Salon owners like Dajiah Blackshear-Calloway in Georgia and Kadidja Dosso in Philadelphia face delayed shipments and supply chain disruptions, forcing some to ask clients to bring their own hair to appointments or absorb increased costs themselves. These tariffs are causing clients to reduce visits as salons pass on higher prices, threatening the financial viability of these businesses. The complexity and confusion over tariff classifications have further complicated customs clearance, exacerbating delays and shortages. Industry experts warn that these tariffs disproportionately impact Black entrepreneurs, risking long-term harm to their operations and economic stability.