Trump’s tariffs on Chinese imports are raising Halloween prices and hurting small businesses. Learn how costumes, masks, and props are affected.
Table of Contents
Trump’s Tariffs Are Devastating the Halloween Industry
Introduction
Halloween enthusiasts may soon feel the bite of higher prices thanks to Trump-era tariffs on Chinese imports. From latex masks to zombie props, small businesses across the US are struggling to absorb extra costs while keeping their shelves stocked for the spooky season. Retailers and consumers alike are bracing for a costlier Halloween this year.
How Tariffs Are Impacting Halloween Businesses
Chris Zephro, owner of Trick or Treat Studios in Santa Cruz, California, has seen his warehouse filled with horror props turn into a financial nightmare.
- Zephro has paid upwards of $800,000 in tariffs so far this year.
- His company supplies over 10,000 retailers, 65% in the US.
- The Halloween and Costume Association notes that nearly 90% of Halloween products contain parts made overseas, mostly in China.
The tariff hike forced Zephro to lay off 15 employees, marking the first layoffs in his 15-year business history.
“These are friends of mine. I know their families and I’m hoping to bring them back,” Zephro said.
Tariffs Timeline and Their Effects
In April, the Trump administration raised tariffs on most Chinese goods from about 20% to 145%, later reducing them to 30% in May. The immediate consequences included:
- Production halts: Importers delayed orders for Halloween products.
- Inventory shortages: Retailers faced limited stock for key seasonal items.
- Price increases: Halloween shoppers are expected to spend $114.45 per person, up $11 from last year, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF).
The administration claims tariffs protect jobs and promote domestic manufacturing, but small business owners argue the policies increase costs and threaten livelihoods.
Impact on Consumers
Reyna Hernandez, shopping for her six-year-old’s costume, described the rising prices as “ridiculous.” Many families are buying costumes piece by piece to spread out the cost.
- Child costumes: Prices are mostly stable, though some increase slightly.
- Adult costumes & props: Prices could rise by $5–$10.
- Alternative production: Items made outside China, like in Mexico, Vietnam, India, or the UK, often avoid tariffs.
Even large props, like the 6.5-ft animatronic “Cagey the Clown”, have seen potential price jumps from $399.99 to $600 due to import costs.
Small Businesses Are Feeling the Horror
Small and medium-sized Halloween businesses struggle because:
- Manufacturing in the US is difficult due to infrastructure, regulations, and raw material shortages.
- Overseas factories remain necessary for affordable production.
- Tariffs make it financially unfeasible to produce certain items, forcing cuts in product lines.
“If you really want manufacturing to come back here, you have to look at why it left and start there,” Zephro said.
Retailers like Phantom Halloween try to absorb costs where possible, keeping price increases minimal to protect families.
FAQs About Halloween Tariffs
Q1: How are Trump tariffs affecting Halloween prices?
Higher tariffs on Chinese imports have increased the cost of costumes, masks, props, and decorations, impacting both retailers and consumers.
Q2: Which Halloween products are most affected?
Items containing Chinese-made components, including latex masks, large props, and intricate decorations, face the biggest price hikes.
Q3: Can consumers avoid higher prices?
Some products made outside China, such as in Mexico or Vietnam, may not see significant price increases.
Q4: How are small businesses coping?
Many small manufacturers are absorbing some costs, reducing product lines, or raising prices moderately to survive.
Q5: Will tariffs impact Halloween long-term?
Potentially. Continued tariffs could make imported items permanently more expensive, challenging small businesses and consumer budgets.
Conclusion
Trump-era tariffs are sending shockwaves through the Halloween industry, driving up costs for both small businesses and consumers. While the administration frames tariffs as a step toward domestic prosperity, small business owners like Chris Zephro see them as a financial burden that affects employees, product availability, and families’ Halloween budgets.
👉 Are you feeling the impact of higher Halloween prices this year? Share your thoughts and costume hacks in the comments below!