🚨 U.S. Launches Tariff Investigation on Imported Furniture: China–U.S. Trade May Face 25%–50% Duties

On August 22 (U.S. Eastern Time), President Donald Trump announced via his social media platform Truth Social that the United States will launch a major tariff investigation on imported furniture.

The investigation will be completed within 50 days (by October 11, 2025). After that, furniture shipments from around the world entering the U.S. may face new, yet-to-be-determined tariff rates.

🔎 Focus and Purpose of the Investigation

According to Trump, the aim of this move is to bring the furniture industry back to North Carolina, South Carolina, Michigan, and other U.S. states with traditional manufacturing bases.

This suggests that furniture could become the next major tariff target after steel and aluminum products.

📊 The Role of Furniture in China–U.S. Trade

2024 Data: China’s furniture exports to the U.S. reached USD 12.384 billion, up 2.69% year-on-year.

Furniture accounted for 13.72% of China’s total furniture exports.

Breakdown:

Bedroom wooden furniture: +30.23%

Kitchen wooden furniture: +18.03%

Bamboo furniture: +18.34%

Measured by containerized exports, furniture is one of the largest categories in China–U.S. ocean shipping.
Therefore, if new tariffs are imposed, it will have a significant impact on the cross-border supply chain and freight costs.

⚠️ Possible Tariff Levels

Although Trump did not announce the final rates, industry experts expect tariffs to mirror those imposed on steel and aluminum imports in previous years:

Tariff levels may range between 25% and 50%.

Once implemented, exporters and importers worldwide will face heavy cost pressure.

The final outcome is expected by October 11, 2025.

✅ Recommendations for Exporters & Importers

As a furniture exporter/importer, you should:

Monitor investigation progress closely and evaluate potential cost increases.

Optimize logistics planning: secure capacity and arrange shipments in advance.

Work closely with your freight forwarder to ensure smooth customs clearance and compliance.

Review contracts and pricing strategies, especially cost-sharing mechanisms in case of tariff hikes.

🌐 How to Safeguard Your China–U.S. Shipping?

Uncertainty in tariff policies means businesses must rely on professional logistics support to stay competitive.

👉 Passionship International Logistics
We specialize in China to USA FCL & LCL shipping, customs clearance, and compliance consulting, helping furniture exporters/importers manage logistics with flexibility, compliance, and cost efficiency.

Contact us today to get the latest tariff updates and tailored shipping solutions!