Trump’s newly proposed wave of tariffs are sending shockwaves through global trade, but its ripple effects are hitting close to home for Gen Z. With steep tariffs targeting imports from China, Japan and South Korea, these policies may begin to alter our generation’s spending habits.
Coming For The trinkets
Sonny Angels, the cult favorite figurines from Japan, are about to get more expensive. Under Trump’s tariffs, a 24% tax has been applied to many Japanese imports, including toys. It’s predicted that the cost will likely be passed on to U.S. buyers. Additionally, the new craze of Labubu Dolls, which are distributed by the Chinese toy company Pop Mart, face an even steeper challenge. With tariffs on Chinese imports now set at 104%, it’s reasonable to expect a sharp rise in price tags for anything not already on our shelves.
Fast Fashion May Be Coming To An End
Starting May. 2, of this year, fast fashion’s cheap and easy days may end. The Trump administration is putting a stop to a trade loophole that allows low-cost clothing and accessories from Chinese sites, such as Shein and Temu, into the U.S. without paying additional fees. As these tariffs begin to kick in, there’s a good chance we’ll see the end of fast fashion and the start of a way more expensive shopping era. So, for all the college girls who have a Shein cart full of potential going-out outfits, we advise you to order them sooner rather than later.
Say Goodbye To The Daily Sweet Treat
What used to be a daily sweet treat is now getting harder to come by. Match’s global demand has outgrown the small window for when it’s harvested, and now with the new 24% tariff on Japanese imports, it is making things even tighter. For a generation that’s made matcha part of their daily routine, the rising price is a reminder of how fast everyday favorites can turn into luxury splurges.
Korean Beauty’s Affordability Is Under Threat
Korean beauty has long offered an affordable path to high-performance skincare, making South Korea the source of 22% of U.S. beauty imports. Even major American brands like Rare Beauty rely on Korean manufacturing. But under Trump’s plan, a new 25% tariff on South Korean imports threatens that affordability. Industry insiders are already warning that K-beauty could lose its place as an entry-level luxury.
So What Does This Mean?
As these tariffs begin to take effect, their impact goes beyond trade policy. It’s reshaping the way Gen Z engages with the brands, trends and comforts. What was once affordable and abundant is becoming increasingly costly and scarce. Whether this sparks a shift toward more mindful consumption or simply a scramble to stock up before prices spike, one thing is clear. The era of effortless access to global goods may be coming to an end.
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