The American Booksellers Association has released "An Overview of the 2025 Tariffs," seeking to clarify the current state of a volatile situation for indie booksellers. The April tariffs imposed a baseline 10% tariff on goods from all countries starting April 5, and higher rates (11% to 50%) for 57 specific countries starting April 9. Non-compliant goods carry a 25% tariff. The April 2 reciprocal tariffs were imposed on top of the tariffs issued in February.
Because the Trump tariffs were imposed under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, "informational materials," which includes books, are exempt, the ABA noted, adding that there will be no additional tariffs on books sourced from any country, other than those which already existed.
"Moreover, as of the current date, goods from Canada and Mexico that are compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) are not currently subject to the new reciprocal tariffs," the ABA wrote. "As such, paper that is wholly grown, produced, or manufactured in Canada, Mexico, or the U.S. is USMCA compliant and not subject to new reciprocal tariffs." There were already tariffs on some types of books coming from China and those still remain in place.
"It is likely that tariffs will increase the price of books and shipping, mainly because of how they could impact the cost of producing books (imported paper and ink except Canada and Mexico if USMCA-compliant) and possible increases in fuel prices," the ABA noted. "Much will depend on how publishers and suppliers respond to the tariffs--where they source paper and ink and other items to produce books. That said, even small input cost increases might nudge book prices up 5%-10%. Inflation from broader tariff impacts could amplify this; and some economists project tariffs could cost the average household $3,800 per year according to an analysis by Yale University, and will impact low-income households the hardest. This, of course, would likely shrink consumer spending on books."
The ABA also looked at how tariffs will impact other aspects of indie bookselling, including coffee and sidelines from Canada and Mexico; sidelines from other countries, particularly those from China and other nations with higher reciprocal tariffs; and shopping bags.
Regarding exports and international shipping, the ABA wrote: "Many countries have imposed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, including books, in response to Trump's tariffs. These retaliatory tariffs could increase costs and potentially reduce demand. In addition, shipping costs may increase due to trade disruptions."