Promotional products, corporate gift Los Angeles.

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Last updated on February 4th, 2025 at 07:29 pm

With tariff from Canada, Mexico, China and other oversea areas looming, many of our customers are wondering if they should consider domestically made promotional products in their next marketing campaign. In this blog post we will discuss and go over the categories of promotional products that are made in the USA.

Why Demands for USA Made are on the Rise

  1. Sustainability: According to a 2025 study conducted by ASI, demand for “Made in USA” promotional products has surged over the past few years, driven by both consumer preference and businesses’ desire to avoid tariff-related costs. In fact, 62% of end-buyers stated they would prefer to buy domestically produced goods if it ensured quicker delivery and higher quality. “Made in USA” products also align with broader trends toward sustainability and local manufacturing, making them attractive options for environmentally conscious brands.
  2. Cost Comparisons: While “Made in USA” items often come at a premium compared to imports from countries with lower labor costs, the gap has narrowed in recent years due to rising tariffs and international shipping costs. ASI reports that the average price increase for “Made in USA” items is around 10-20% compared to imported equivalents, but many companies are willing to pay this premium for the benefits of faster lead times and higher perceived quality.
  3. Certifications and Compliance: Companies seeking to source “Made in USA” promotional products often look for suppliers that offer certified products. Several certification bodies ensure compliance with “Made in USA” labeling, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), which oversees and enforces proper use of the label. Additionally, many products include certifications for ethical manufacturing, such as Fair Labor Standards or Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for eco-friendly products.

Why You Should Buy USA Made Promotional Products

The new tariffs are going to be a real possibility soon. When making plans for future promotional products campaign, it will be wise to includes USA made items as options in case the costs of overseas made promotional products are too high and affect your overall budget.

The upward price pressure will play out in the promotional products industry, if the tariff continues. Prices will not hike overnight; most likely what will happen is the existing inventory will be exhausted stateside,  once that stock is gone, prices will go up because products will cost more with the additional tariff.

Most majority promotional products sold in both the U.S. and Canada are from manufacturers overseas, particularly in Asia, with China being the main production hub, especially for popular hard good categories like drinkware and technology items. Meanwhile, Mexico has emerged as a popular spot for production of some promo categories as well.

Moreover, tariffs may cause shipping and logistic delays for overseas products. Domestic manufacturing means they do not have to travel far, so you will more likely to have products that meet your deadlines.

If you have plans for purchasing promotional products this year, it will be beneficial to purchase sooner rather than later. In a few months after the tariffs are in effect, as shipments come in from overseas, costs for promotional products will no doubt increase, so purchasing earlier in the year will save you some money!

Last but not least, buying American made promotional products keep manufacturing jobs right here in the US, benefitting our local community and economy.

Promotional Products That are USA Made

usa made pill box bandages

Plastic Water Bottles: bike bottles that are made with polyethylene or PET materials

Plastic home/kitchen Products: pill box, bandage dispenser, bag clips, luggage tags and various household items that are made of plastic

usa made calendars

Office Items: adhesive notepads, scratch pads, wall calendars, vinyl decals, vinyl sticker sheets, die cut stickers

Apparel: t-shirts, sweatshirts, polos, socks

Personal Items: Lip Balm, Sunscreen, Mints

Tradeshow Displays: Retractable banners, table covers, pop-up tents, flag banners, vinyl banners

 

While we do not have a crystal ball of how extensive the effect of the tariff will have on the promotional product industry, we are keeping a close eye on the situation. If your company is planning for any kind of promotional products campaign this year, contact us for a consultation so we can help you plan this out as best as possible.

 

 

 

About the Author

Shirley Ho

Shirley is the co-founder of Garuda Promo and Branding Solutions. With a background in print production and graphic design, she specializes in promotional products marketing, creating end-products that aligns with her client's marketing goals and brand strategy.

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