Interest in the United States in pursuing active lifestyles could be dented by increased prices for outdoor and sporting goods after the government raised tariffs on virtually all imported Chinese-made products.
Ranging from hats, gloves and football helmets to backpacks, sports bags, kayaks and camping chairs, everyday items from China were already subject to a 10 percent tariff imposed in September. This month, the rate was raised to 25 percent.
The US administration has also proposed another 25 percent tariff targeting a further $325 billion in Chinese imports, including clothing, footwear, tents, sleeping bags, snowboards and other sports equipment.
Rich Harper, manager of international trade at the Outdoor Industry Association, said, "In other words, everything that has not yet faced a punitive import tariff is now on the list."
The list he referred to is the fourth round of tariffs proposed by US government since the first were introduced in July.
This latest round would deliver a devastating blow to the $887 billion outdoor recreation economy and the 7.6 million US jobs it supports, the OIA said.
The Sports and Fitness Industry Association also said the government's action will be "potentially destructive" to its $92.3 billion industry.
Harper said during a recent internet seminar: "This is an all-hands-on-deck moment. Only together can we push back against these tariffs."
He urged companies in the sports and leisure industry to submit comments on the fourth round of tariffs and to testify at a public hearing that will start in Washington on June 17.
"It's important that they hear from you and (learn) the individual impact that the tariffs will have on your business," Harper said.
The period allowed for public comment will end seven days after the last day of the public hearing, which will likely run through the end of June, Harper said.
The OIA warned its members to be prepared for the latest round of tariffs to take effect as early as mid-July.
Tariffs that have been imposed have led to price increases for customers and lower margins for Salewa North America, a Colorado company that imports and sells products ranging from skiing gear and clothing to footwear and climbing equipment.
The company pays the 10 percent additional tariff on accessories in its apparel line such as headbands, hats and beanies.
