How Do Tariffs on China Impact Optics?
Hey all, we here at True Shot Academy are going to discuss the relationship between tariffs on China and optics. Specifically, we are going to focus on how optic prices can potentially be influenced by increased tariffs on Chinese imports. Like other recent tariff updates, the situation is still developing and is subject to change at any point in the future. Without further ado, let’s talk about how optics stand to be impacted by tariffs on Chinese goods.
What Tariffs?
Recently, the United States unveiled a new round of tariffs and reciprocal tariff rates on imported goods. This round of tariffs included a 10% baseline tariff on any imported goods in addition to discounted reciprocal tariff rates on certain countries. Reciprocal tariff rates were to be applied on top of the baseline 10% tariff. These reciprocal tariffs for non-retaliatory countries were ultimately paused for 90 days on April 9th. At the time of writing, the baseline tariff of 10% applies to all foreign countries who did not engage in retaliatory actions.
How Are Shooters Affected?
Many items utilized by shooters are imported from foreign countries. With the exception of goods from Canada and Mexico, goods of this type are subject to the universal 10% tariff. This includes ammunition in addition to other goods like flashlights, optics, firearms, and more. Luckily, with the pausing of reciprocal tariff rates, the chance of steep price hikes on these goods is unlikely during the pause. This is not the case, however, for goods imported from China and other retaliatory nations.
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What About China?
As mentioned above, countries that did not retaliate against the new tariffs are only met with a 10% baseline tariff. China is among the retaliatory nations and is subjected to a higher tariff rate as a result. On April 9, while announcing the pause on reciprocal tariffs for non-retaliatory nations, President Trump also announced a 125% tariff on Chinese goods. This rate has increased this week as an Executive Order on Tuesday, April 15 made further changes to the tariff on Chinese goods. At time of writing, China stands to face up to a 245% tariff on goods imported to the United States. This tariff rate carries with it the potential for sharp price increases on Chinese goods due.
Chinese-Made Shooting Goods
Like many hobbies, industries, and areas of interest, the realm of shooting has a wide range of Chinese-made goods. Shooting accessories made in China are common and range from things like bags, slings, optics, firearm accessories, and more. As tariffs increase on goods imported from China, it is likely that prices on Chinese made goods, regardless of industry, stand to increase in price. Put plainly, if it is an imported good, it is subjected to these tariffs.
What Optics are Made in China?
Currently, there are many optics manufactured in China. The wide range of Chinese optics ranges from cheap, low-quality offerings best-suited for airsoft use to offerings marketed for duty use. This is to say that there are Chinese optics priced at budget, mid-range, and even premium price points.
Just to illustrate the wide range of optics produced in China, we are going to list a few brands and popular models.
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More Than “Made in China” Optics
Of course, increased tariffs can also impact optics beyond those explicitly marked “Made in China.” There are many optics and other accessories which are marked as “Assembled in USA” which utilize foreign-made parts. These foreign parts can range from housings to electronic components and glass. This is especially evident when it comes to circuit boards and resistors, two categories of electronics commonly produced overseas in Asian countries. Put plainly, optics besides those which are obviously made in China may see some increases in price if they utilize components imported from China.
So, Will Prices Increase?
Due to the nature of tariffs, the cost of importers will inevitably increase. This is due to the fact that importers will now have to pay higher costs when bringing in products. Due to the higher cost placed on importers, prices of products typically increase to compensate for higher import costs. This is to say that consumers can expect to see prices increase as a result of these higher tariff rates. It is uncertain as to when prices will change and by how much they will increase. Each company is different and will operate in their own manner regarding these tariffs. Put plainly, one should be ready for price increases on imported goods from China.
Conclusion
All in all, it is important to recognize the fact that tariffs can impact the cost of goods. This is especially true in the case of Chinese optics, a popular class of product in the United States. If these tariffs remain, shooters can expect prices to increase on Chinese goods like optics. This has the potential to impact everything from the budget-oriented options to the more premium, duty-oriented offerings. Of course, there is still potential for things to change regarding these tariffs. Given the recent trend in tariffs on Chinese goods, it is not unreasonable for them to continue to increase. Of course, diplomacy and negotiations can lead to decreases in tariffs.
We here at True Shot Ammo have no interest in fear mongering or spurring panic buying. Our goal is simply to provide the facts and information regarding these tariffs and their potential impacts on shooting goods like ammo and optics. With this in mind, if one is interested in protruding a Chinese-made optic, one should do so sooner than later to get ahead of potential price hikes. As always, we will provide updates as necessary regarding any changes with these tariffs and how they impact our industry. As always, happy shooting.
