Navigating Tariffs in the Promo Industry — and Why Made-in-USA Products Are More Important Than Ever

The promotional products industry is no stranger to global complexity. From cotton tees produced overseas to drinkware manufactured across borders, international sourcing has long helped brands balance price, quality, and variety. But that balance is shifting — fast.

Tariffs on imported goods — particularly from countries like China — have added new costs and complexities for businesses across industries. While originally intended to address unfair trade practices, these policies have had ripple effects throughout the promotional merchandise world. For brands that rely on global supply chains, that means higher costs, delayed shipments, and an increased need for contingency planning.

At Lahlouh, we work with clients every day to help them navigate this new landscape, without losing momentum or blowing their budgets. And one of the most reliable paths forward? 

Sourcing domestically.

Lahlouh Makes It Easy

We believe promo should be proactive, not reactive. That means building sourcing strategies that adapt to market shifts — like tariffs — without sacrificing quality or creativity.

We offer:

• Curated Made-in-USA collections across apparel, wellness, tech, desk, and drinkware
  
  
• Custom kitting and packaging designed to tell your brand story
  
  
• Strategic support to help you stay ahead of the curve and avoid global sourcing headaches

Explore the Collection:

Click here to shop American-made items

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These items not only showcase quality and style, but they also support local businesses and reflect the spirit of independence and innovation.

What Are Tariffs, and Why Do They Matter?

A tariff is essentially a tax on imported goods. It’s meant to level the playing field for domestic producers or to penalize countries for certain economic behaviors. But in practice, tariffs often raise the cost of doing business, and those costs trickle down to the end customer.

Under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, the U.S. government can impose tariffs on countries it believes are engaging in unfair trade practices. These tariffs are often targeted, impacting specific product categories. For example, the most recent round of tariffs expanded duties on Chinese-made tech, machinery, metals, and consumer goods, many of which overlap with popular promo products like headphones, power banks, and branded drinkware.

When tariffs increase the cost of importing these goods, businesses have two choices: absorb the cost (and reduce margins) or pass it on to the client. Neither is ideal. That’s why many marketing teams are now looking for more sustainable, tariff-free alternatives.

The Promo Supply Chain Is Feeling the Pressure

According to the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), the vast majority of promotional merchandise is sourced internationally, especially from countries like China, India, and Vietnam. While this global network offers diversity and scale, it also leaves buyers vulnerable to supply chain disruptions — especially when policy changes come with little warning.

And tariffs are just one piece of the puzzle. With global shipping delays, rising fuel costs, and increased compliance requirements from U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP), importing promo products has never been more complicated.

Here's how it can affect your business:

• Price Uncertainty: New or modified tariffs can be imposed with little warning, creating budget instability.
  
  
• Longer Lead Times: Increased inspections and customs delays can stretch timelines by weeks.
  
  
• Inventory Risk: If a shipment gets delayed or fails compliance checks, it can jeopardize entire campaigns or events.
  
  

That’s where Made-in-USA sourcing comes in — not as a compromise, but as a strategic advantage.

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Why Made-in-USA Merchandise Makes Sense Right Now

There’s more than just pride behind the “Made in the USA” label. In today’s market, American-made products offer real business benefits:

Avoid Tariffs and Trade Headaches

Domestically made goods are not subject to Section 301 tariffs or international shipping delays. That means fewer surprises, more predictable pricing, and smoother project execution.

Support Local Economies

Every U.S.-made item supports American manufacturing jobs and small businesses — something your clients, employees, and partners can feel good about.

Shorten the Supply Chain

With fewer handoffs and transportation legs, your products get to you faster, and with less carbon footprint.

Brands We Love (and Trust)

Whether you're building onboarding kits, holiday gifts, or standout swag for a campaign, here are some of our favorite Made-in-USA brands — and how they elevate the experience:

Marine Layer

Ultra-soft, sustainably made apparel with that effortless California vibe. From hoodies to tees, Marine Layer’s domestic production means fewer delays, and zero compromise on style.

Modern Sprout

Made in Chicago, these grow kits and planters combine sustainability with design-forward packaging. Perfect for wellness initiatives, Earth Day campaigns, or just sending good vibes.

American Giant

A true American manufacturing success story. Known for quality construction and timeless design, these pieces hold up in the long run — just like your brand.

Good & Well Supply Co.

Handcrafted candles inspired by national parks, made with soy wax and thoughtful scents. Great for cozy winter gifts or rustic-themed campaigns.

Terrytown

From beach towels to robes, Terrytown is making a serious commitment to domestic production, including U.S.-grown cotton.

Bask Sunscreen

Award-winning, non-toxic, mineral sunscreen. Bask blends function with fun design and is made entirely in the U.S. It’s a win for outdoor events, summer kits, or health-focused campaigns.

Sweeter Cards

A chocolate bar and greeting card in one. These quirky, made-in-the-USA treats are great for client thank-yous, team milestones, or brand activations that deserve a smile.

Bluebonnet

Premium tumblers made in Texas with bold colors and clean lines. A reliable alternative to tariff-affected drinkware with local charm.

Craighill

Design-forward office goods and accessories — think desk sculptures, key rings, and lifestyle items crafted with intention. They’re understated but impactful, just like great branding should be.

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​​​​Let’s Keep It Local — and Strategic

With shifting tariffs, longer lead times, and rising costs, there’s never been a better time to rethink where (and how) your merchandise is made. American-made products offer reliability, quality, and a story your recipients will actually remember.

Ready to start your next Made-in-USA order?

We’re here to help you find the perfect pieces, customize them to your brand, and deliver a standout experience your audience will remember. 

Let’s get started! 

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