Tariff Increase Alert: Lock in Lower Rates on Promotional Products

Attention, friends and fellow businesses.

On August 12, 2025, U.S. tariffs on promotional products imported from China will increase significantly. Duties on pens, mugs, T-shirts, and tote bags will rise from around 40–60 percent up to 65–80 percent. That is a steep jump that could seriously impact your budget.

Before August 12, you can still order at today’s lower rates.

By placing your order now, you benefit from:

• Section 301 rates at 7.5 percent for apparel and textiles or 25 percent for pens, mugs, and similar items.

• Fentanyl surtax at 20 percent.

• Reciprocal tariff at only 10 percent (instead of 34 percent after August 12).

• MFN/WTO rate at 3.3 percent.

After August 12, the reciprocal layer jumps to 34 percent, adding roughly 24 measurement points to your landed cost. For example, a box of T-shirts that today carries about 40.8 percent total duty would face approximately 64.8 percent duty come mid-August. Pens and mugs would see total duties rise from about 58.3 percent to 82.3 percent.

Do not let your budget take a hit.

By ordering before August 12, you will:

• Keep unit costs lower and protect your profit margins.

• Ensure timely delivery before the tariff change takes effect.

• Avoid scrambling for alternative suppliers at the last minute.

If you have questions about specific HS codes, duty calculations, or fast-track ordering, send us a direct message or call 682-502-4063! As a woman-owned business, Selph Marketing specializes in promotional items, SEO, and custom content. We also offer a Free Digital Ads Audit. Browse products here https://SelphMarketing.ESPWebsites.com

We have fun recommendations for pens that write smoothly, mugs that keep coffee hotter, and T-shirts that make your brand shine. Acting now ensures you lock in the best possible rates before August 12.

Thank you for trusting Selph Marketing. We are here to help you navigate these changes and keep your marketing efforts on track.