Trump Tariffs Raise US Fireworks Prices Amid China Trade War

The American fireworks industry, which relies heavily on Chinese imports for 95 to 99 percent of consumer fireworks, is facing rising costs due to tariffs imposed by President Trump's administration and ongoing inflation. Although tariffs on Chinese fireworks were as high as 145 percent earlier this year, they have since been reduced to around 30 percent, providing some relief to vendors, though prices on larger fireworks have still increased significantly. Industry leaders warn that the current tariff uncertainty disrupts supply chains and purchasing decisions, with small businesses often bearing unexpected tariff costs. The tariffs threaten to impact the scale and affordability of fireworks displays for the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence, with concerns that some small towns may cancel their shows or that major displays could be shortened. Attempts to shift production away from China face long timelines and challenges, as domestic manufacturing would take years to develop and still rely on imported raw materials subject to tariffs. Overall, the fireworks sector is urging the administration to consider exemptions or adjustments to avoid dampening celebrations in 2026.