The American Lighting Association (ALA) strongly opposes the administration’s decision to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, as well as the additional 10% tariff on Chinese imports, set to take effect this week. These tariffs will significantly impact lighting manufacturers, retailers, and consumers, driving up costs across the supply chain and reducing competitiveness in the global market. Many U.S. lighting and ceiling fan businesses are small, family-owned companies that operate on tight margins. These tariffs will make it harder for them to compete, leading to potential job losses and reduced investment in domestic operations.
Canada and Mexico are key trade partners for the U.S. lighting industry, supplying essential materials and finished products that keep prices stable and businesses thriving. Imposing tariffs on these countries will disrupt supply chains, increase costs for American manufacturers, and ultimately lead to higher prices for consumers. Our ALA Canadian members do a significant amount of business with American manufacturers and these tariffs will have a negative impact on their business as well as the Canadian lighting manufacturers that sell to many of our lighting showroom members. Additionally, with a new 10% tariff on Chinese imports, many lighting products and components that are difficult to source elsewhere will become even more expensive, further straining the industry. This new 10% tariffs comes in addition to the already enacted 10% China tariffs ALA reported on here – for a total 20% increase over the past month.
ALA has consistently supported fair trade policies that strengthen American businesses without imposing undue burdens on manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. We previously urged the administration to extend the suspension of the Canada and Mexico tariffs in a statement here. Tariffs act as taxes on American businesses and households, making it more difficult for lighting companies to provide affordable, high-quality products. Rather than broad tariff increases that strain key industries, the administration should pursue targeted trade negotiations that address national security concerns without disrupting economic stability.
Canada enacting reciprocal tariffs in response has added another layer of costs and complexity to our members businesses. To avoid a further escalation, all parties should return to the negotiating table to solve these trade disagreements before further economic damage is done.
We urge the administration to reconsider these tariffs and engage in meaningful discussions with Canada, Mexico, and China to find solutions that protect both national security and economic prosperity. ALA will continue advocating for policies that support a stable, predictable trade environment and ensure that our industry remains strong and competitive. ALA will continue to keep members updated about the potential opportunity for waivers on lighting products and is working closely with our industry partners on communicating the need to roll back these tariffs immediately.
- Laurie Gross, Interim President and CEO, American Lighting Association
