The back-to-school season could come with sticker shock, thanks to tariffs on imports from China and other trade partners.
While legal challenges have paused some duties, others are still on the books — or looming.
Traders on prediction markets like Polymarket think there are a few countries that will agree to tariff agreements with the U.S. before August: Argentina leads the pack at 36%, then South Korea at 25%, and Canada at 15%. Other countries are far less optimistic: India (7%), China (5%), and France (3%).
Here’s a look at 10 everyday products that could see price hikes before students head back to class.
Backpacks
Many backpacks are imported from China and are subject to existing tariffs. Higher logistics costs and supply chain reshuffling could push prices up in August.
Bicycles
U.S. tariffs on Chinese-made bikes remain in place, and bike demand typically spikes before school. Expect higher costs for parents shopping for commuting options.
Calculators
Electronic devices like graphing calculators are still heavily imported. If tariffs on tech components hold, retailers could raise prices to cover costs.
Clothing and Shoes
Apparel is a major import category hit by tariffs. While some duties have been paused, retailers may still preemptively raise prices due to uncertainty.
Desk Chairs
Classroom and dorm furniture, especially lower-cost imports, are caught in tariff crossfire. Bulk buyers are already reporting higher costs.
Electronics
Laptops, tablets, and accessories like USB drives are still affected by tech tariffs. These are big-ticket back-to-school items, and small hikes add up.
Lunch Boxes
Plastic and insulated lunch gear often comes from overseas and could see price increases tied to materials and manufacturing duties.
Notebooks and Paper Supplies
China remains a key supplier of processed paper goods. Tariff-related price hikes on notebooks, folders, and printer paper are already being felt.
Smartphones
Phones themselves often escape tariffs, but components — like chips and batteries — don’t. Some manufacturers may pass on added costs to buyers.
Sports Equipment
Gear for school sports — from cleats to baseball gloves — often includes tariffed materials or is imported outright. Expect a jump at checkout.
