Trump announces new tariffs: 25% on heavy trucks and 30% on upholstered furniture. Learn how these trade moves impact prices and US manufacturing.
Table of Contents
Trump Imposes 25% Tariff on Trucks and 30% Tariff on Furniture
Introduction
President Donald Trump has announced sweeping new tariffs on key imported products, including heavy trucks and furniture. Starting October 1, 2025, upholstered furniture will face a 30% tariff, while imported heavy trucks will be subject to a 25% tariff. Trump said the move is aimed at protecting U.S. manufacturing, addressing oversupply from foreign markets, and strengthening national security.
These tariffs are expected to impact both consumers and industries, with potential ripple effects across supply chains, pricing, and stock markets.
New Tariffs on Furniture: 30% Levy
In a Truth Social post, Trump declared:
- 50% tariff on all imported kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities
- 30% tariff on upholstered furniture
Rising Costs for Consumers
- Furniture prices were already up 4.7% in August 2025 compared to a year earlier (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
- Living room and dining room furniture surged 9.5% year-over-year.
- China and Vietnam, the two largest furniture exporters to the U.S., shipped $12 billion worth of furniture in 2024, making them the biggest targets.
Trump argued foreign suppliers have been “flooding” the U.S. market, undermining American manufacturers.
Market Reaction
Stocks of major U.S. retailers such as Wayfair (W), RH (RH), and Williams-Sonoma (WSM) dropped in after-hours trading, reflecting investor concerns over higher import costs and consumer demand.
New Tariffs on Trucks: 25% Levy
Trump also imposed a 25% tariff on imported heavy trucks, citing unfair competition against U.S. manufacturers like Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and Mack Trucks.
Why It Matters
- Most foreign-built trucks are manufactured in Mexico and enter the U.S. tariff-free under the USMCA agreement, as long as two-thirds of parts are made in North America.
- If the new tariffs extend to Mexico, they could affect 78% of imported heavy trucks, according to Capital Economics.
- Previous tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper already raised truck production costs in the U.S.
Trump framed the move as vital to ensuring the financial stability of U.S. truckers and manufacturers, which he tied directly to national security.
Economic and Industry Impact
- Furniture Industry: Rising import costs may push consumers toward more expensive domestic options, while U.S. manufacturers face higher raw material prices due to existing tariffs.
- Trucking Industry: Tariffs could shift supply chains but also risk raising prices for U.S.-made trucks due to increased metal costs.
- Global Trade: Mexico stands to lose the most if exemptions under USMCA are removed.
FAQs
Q1: When will the new tariffs on trucks and furniture take effect?
A1: The tariffs will begin on October 1, 2025.
Q2: Which furniture products are included in the tariffs?
A2: A 30% tariff applies to upholstered furniture, and a 50% tariff applies to kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities.
Q3: How will the 25% truck tariff affect Mexico?
A3: Mexico may face the biggest hit, as it supplies 78% of heavy trucks imported into the U.S.
Q4: Will these tariffs lower consumer costs?
A4: Experts suggest tariffs are more likely to raise prices for consumers, as manufacturers pass higher costs down the supply chain.
Q5: Why does Trump link tariffs to national security?
A5: Trump argues that protecting domestic manufacturing ensures economic resilience and reduces reliance on foreign supply chains.
Conclusion
Trump’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on heavy trucks and 30% tariffs on furniture underscores his administration’s trade-first approach to manufacturing and economic policy. While the measures aim to protect U.S. industries, consumers could see higher prices, and international trade partners may push back.
As these tariffs take effect, both industries and households will closely watch their impact on supply chains, costs, and availability.
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