Sam Rutledge and his wife, expecting a baby in mid-July, decided to purchase essential baby gear earlier than planned due to President Donald Trump’s tariff announcement in April. They bought strollers, a car seat, nursery furniture, and other items, all made overseas. These products are typically expensive, but tariffs ranging from 10% for most countries to 145% for China could make them even more costly. Approximately 90% of core baby care products are manufactured in Asia, primarily in China. Industry leaders have expressed concerns about the tariffs’ impact, with some companies halting orders from China and freezing hiring. While some exemptions were granted during Trump’s first term, it remains unclear if further exemptions will be considered. Retailers and manufacturers worry about the financial strain on families and potential inventory shortages.
— new from AP News
