Tariffs Threaten to Cancel Halloween and Cripple Christmas

U.S. costume and toy companies are sounding the alarm that newly proposed tariffs on Chinese imports could wipe out Halloween and severely disrupt Christmas unless urgent action is taken.

Costumes that used to retail for $19.99 will jump to $39.99. Even simple masks, once priced at $4.99, could now cost $9.99, or more.

“This is an existential moment for our industry,” sayd Robert Berman, board member of Halloween & Costume Association and president of Rasta Impasta/Imposta Costumes. “Halloween isn’t like other holidays. If products don’t land on time or become too expensive for families, Halloween simply doesn’t happen. There is no backup plan.”

Key takeaways:

·       Toy companies are sounding the alarm too, warning that Christmas could be next.

·        Industry leaders are calling on the U.S. government to consider the seasonal nature of these categories before final decisions are made.